Man,41, arrested after Kent synagogue burial ground vandalised
After latest incident at Chatham Memorial Synagogue, Kent Police confirm: 'A 41-year-old local man has today been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and taken into custody.'
Police have arrested a 41-year-old man on suspicion of causing criminal damage after headstones were knocked over and smashed at a Jewish cemetery in Kent.
The burial ground of of Chatham Memorial Synagogue in Rochester was targeted in the latest act of vandalism to rock the community at some time between August 15th and 18th, police believe.
Damage, estimated to be in the region of £20,000 was discovered at the grounds last Friday by shocked members of the soul.
In a statement, Kent Police confirmed: “A 41-year-old local man has today been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and taken into custody.
“Investigators are continuing to appeal for witnesses and anyone with information to contact them.”
In a further act of vandalism, graffiti was daubed on the doors of the shell, and a CCTV camera was also broken.
The soul has been repeatedly targeted in recent years.
Trustee Dr Dalia Halpern-Matthews said the cemetery had been attacked five times since 2013.
Anyone with information concerning shul’s vandalization should call 01634 792209, quoting crime reference 46/152042/23.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.






















