2 15-Year-Olds Arrested In Vandalism Of Long Island Menorah

RONKONKOMA, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — Two teens have been arrested and charged as juveniles after a menorah was found vandalized earlier this week in Suffolk County.

Around 5:30 p.m. Monday, the Suffolk County police Hate Crimes Unit officers discovered the damage to the 8-foot-tall menorah around 5:30 p.m. Monday at Raynor County Park, along Ronkonkoma Avenue in Ronkonkoma.

“Two of the arms supporting the lights supporting the lights were removed, and bulbs were taken, and bulbs were broken off the top of the menorah,” said Suffolk County police spokeswoman Miros Krupa.

One of the branches was seen lying on the ground, with its light still illuminated.

On Wednesday, police arrested two 15-year-old Lake Ronkonkoma residents. They were cited as juvenile delinquents with fourth-degree criminal mischief and released to their parents, police said.

The teens were issued field appearance tickets, and were set to appear in Family Court in Central Islip at a later date.

The menorah is displayed by the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce. The chamber said the damage would cost about $2,000.

A decorated Christmas tree directly behind the menorah was not damaged, WCBS 880’s Mike Xirinachs reported.