2 Accused Of Hate Crimes In Theft Of Israeli Flag From Ramapo Building

RAMAPO, NY — Two New Yorkers have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of an Israeli flag Monday from the wall of Ramapo Town Hall.

The Ramapo Police Department investigation revealed a group of people had torn the flag down, damaging it in the process, and leaving with it.

Police said they have been able to identify members of the group and made two arrests thus far.

Alter Goldberger, 75, of Monroe, faces charges of Criminal Mischief 4th Degree as a hate crime, Petit Larceny as a hate crime and Conspiracy 6th degree as a hate crime. He was arraigned on the charges and released on his own recognizance pending a future court appearance in the Village of Airmont.

Yehonatan Ovadia, 32, of Chestnut Ridge faces charges of Criminal Mischief 4th Degree as a hate crime, Petit Larceny as a hate crime and Conspiracy 6th degree as a hate crime. He was also released on his own recognizance pending a future court appearance in the Village of Airmont.

The investigation is still ongoing and police ask that anyone with information regarding the incident contact the Ramapo Police Investigations Division at (845) 357-2400.

The vandalized flag was replaced with a larger one, Rockland Daily reported.