NEW YORK (VINnews) — A New York University student has been arrested and charged in connection with the display of an antisemitic banner during graduation festivities on campus, authorities said.

The hateful bigot who thought that flying a swastika during NYU graduation would come without consequences was sorely mistaken.

I am grateful to law enforcement for identifying and arresting the suspect.

Now’s the time for our prosecutors to hold them fully accountable. https://t.co/OlC5cmdAlp

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 3, 2026

Police said Alexander Stepnowsky, 23, of Fairfield, Connecticut, was taken into custody Tuesday following an investigation into an incident that occurred during commencement celebrations in May.

According to authorities, a banner featuring Nazi swastikas alongside a Star of David was displayed from a university building overlooking Washington Square Park, drawing condemnation from university officials and elected leaders.

Stepnowsky was charged with burglary as a hate crime, aggravated harassment and criminal trespass, according to law enforcement officials. Authorities have not released additional details regarding a possible motive.

New York University said it worked closely with the New York Police Department and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office during the investigation. University officials described the display as antisemitic and said it violated the institution’s values and sense of community.

The incident occurred amid continuing concerns over antisemitism on college campuses across the United States and prompted renewed calls for stronger measures to protect Jewish students.

The charges against Stepnowsky are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.