The Jackson Township Police Department announced Wednesday that detectives are actively investigating two separate incidents being treated as bias crimes, including repeated vandalism at the Chai Lifeline facility and the recent burglary and vandalism at the Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG) property on South Hope Chapel Road.

According to Police Chief Mary Nelson, the first investigation involves three separate acts of criminal mischief at the Chai Lifeline facility on County Line Road, where windows were intentionally damaged by unknown individuals. Because the incidents repeatedly targeted a Jewish faith-based organization, investigators are treating the case as a bias crime.

The second investigation centers on the burglary, theft, criminal mischief, and vandalism at the former school building on South Hope Chapel Road, now owned by Beth Medrash Govoha. Police say seven individuals unlawfully entered the building, caused extensive damage, and wrote antisemitic and anti-African American messages on classroom blackboards and other areas. Authorities said the evidence supports prosecuting the incident as a bias crime in addition to the underlying criminal offenses.

Chief Nelson said the department “condemns these hateful acts in the strongest possible terms,” emphasizing that crimes motivated by hatred, prejudice, or intolerance have no place in Jackson Township. She added that such incidents not only affect the direct victims but also create fear throughout the broader community.

Police confirmed that suspects have been identified in connection with the South Hope Chapel Road incident. However, because the investigation remains active, no additional information about those individuals is being released at this time. Authorities said those responsible will face prosecution on all applicable charges, including bias crime charges where supported by the evidence.

In response to the incidents, the Jackson Township Police Department has increased patrols around sensitive locations and areas of concern throughout the township. The department said it remains committed to ensuring that every resident can live, worship, learn, and practice their beliefs without fear of intimidation or violence.

Anyone with information related to either investigation is urged to contact the Jackson Township Police Department. Officials are also asking residents to report any suspicious activity immediately as investigators continue their work.

Police noted that all individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.