NEW HAVEN, Conn. (VINnews) — A Connecticut man has been arrested after police said he targeted several Jewish men during a confrontation in downtown New Haven.

Paul Smith, 36, of East Haven, faces charges including intimidation based on bias and disorderly conduct, according to authorities.

Police said the incident occurred last week when a group of Jewish men was standing on a sidewalk in the city’s downtown area. Investigators allege the suspect directed hostile comments at the group, approached them aggressively and knocked a yarmulke from one man’s head before leaving the scene.

Statement regarding an arrest made in a bias investigation. pic.twitter.com/ToLuV3X0xY

— New Haven Police Department (@NHPDnews) June 8, 2026

Authorities said detectives reviewed surveillance footage and gathered additional evidence that led to Smith’s identification and arrest.

Police officials described the incident as being motivated by anti-Jewish bias and said such conduct would not be tolerated.

No injuries were reported. The investigation remains ongoing.

The charges are accusations, and Smith is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.