Suspect with history of 'animus toward the Jewish community' arrested over LA shootings

Two Jewish men had been the target of shootings this week in the Pico-Robertson district of Los Angeles, which has a sizeable Jewish community

A man alleged to have a history of “animus toward the Jewish community”has been arrested in Los Angeles as a suspect in two shooting incidents.

Two Jewish men had been the target of shootings this week, which took place in and near Pico-Robertson, an area known for its several synagogues, kosher restaurants and other Jewish establishments.

On Wednesday morning, a man, said to be in his 40s was the victim of a drive-by shooting after the victim left morning prayer services.

On Thursday morning, about half a mile away, another man in his 70s was shot by a man. Both victims are in stable condition.

The suspect was arrested later that same day, and detectives seized a rifle and a gun.

In a statement the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the suspect had a “history of animus toward the Jewish community” and that that hatred was likely the motivation for the attacks.

They said the case was being handled on both a federal and a local level, and that officials were trying to interrogate the suspect, whose name was not released.

In its statement, the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles added that it “has been in touch with local law enforcement to make sure our Jewish community is being kept safe.”

The Young Israel of Century City, an Orthodox synagogue in the Pico-Robertson neighbourhood, told its members it would be boosting security in the wake of the incidents.

The synagogue said it is working closely with the LAPD, which has “informed us that they will be deploying additional resources and high-visibility patrols in our area, in particular over Shabbat.”