Teen, 15, Vandalized Menorah On Town Green: North Haven PD

NORTH HAVEN, CT — A 15-year-old juvenile has been arrested in connection with the vandalism of a menorah displayed on the North Haven Town Green, according to police.

Officers responded on Tuesday, Jan. 6 to a report that the menorah on the North Haven Town Green had been damaged, according to police.

Police said command staff assigned detectives on Wednesday to investigate if the act was intentional or possibly due to other factors.

“Upon investigating it was determined the menorah was forcibly removed from its stand and damaged while thrown to the ground,” police wrote in a news release. “Following an investigation, officers identified and arrested a juvenile suspect on the evening of January 7, 2026. The individual was taken into custody and charged in accordance with Connecticut juvenile law. Due to the age of the offender, no additional identifying information will be released.”

The 15-year-old has been charged first-degree criminal mischief and third-degree intimidation based on bigotry or bias.

Police said the case remains under review within the juvenile justice system.

“The North Haven Police Department takes acts of vandalism and hate-motivated behavior extremely seriously,” police wrote. “Damage to a religious symbol is not only an attack on property, but an affront to the values of respect, inclusion, and tolerance that define our community.

“We want to be clear: acts of hate will not be tolerated in the Town of North Haven. Our department remains committed to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of all residents and visitors, regardless of faith, background, or belief.”