Bridgeport Man Accused Of Antisemitic Vandalism In Fairfield: PD

FAIRFIELD, CT — A 68-year-old Bridgeport man has been arrested in connection with a series of antisemitic vandalism incidents last month in Fairfield, according to police.

John Kuhn surrendered to Fairfield police late last week, and was charged with the following felonies and misdemeanors:

• Intimidation Based on Bigotry or Bias, Third Degree (3 counts)
• Criminal Mischief, First Degree
• Criminal Mischief, Second Degree (3 counts)

"Over the course of August, multiple locations in Fairfield were defaced with graffiti depicting Stars of David altered with swastika-like tails," wrote Fairfield Police Sgt. Jenna Wellington in a statement. "These incidents caused collectively approximately $3,000 in damages. Similar incidents were also reported in neighboring communities as well."

Kuhn was developed as the suspect "through a comprehensive investigation," according to Wellington.

"Following interviews, it was determined that his actions were motivated by current events between Israel and Palestine," Wellington said.

"The Fairfield Police Department strongly condemns these acts of hate and vandalism," Wellington said. "Any display of racist, anti-Semitic, or discriminatory behavior has no place in our community. We would like to thank members of the community who promptly reported these incidents and shared surveillance footage or information to assist in the investigation. Community cooperation was instrumental in bringing this case to a successful resolution."

Kuhn was initially held in lieu of bail of $30,000, but it was reduced in Bridgeport Superior Court to a promise to appear on Oct. 28.

Fairfield police urge anyone with information regarding similar incidents to contact the Fairfield Police Detective Bureau at 203-254-4840.

Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted by texting the keyword FPDCT and the tip to 847411 (Tip411), or online at fpdct.com/tips.