Vancouver man arrested for threats against Jews, defacing hostage posters

• Published date: 14 March 2024
• Author: MICHAEL STARR
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

Witnesses reported in October a man using antisemitic and threatening language and antisemitic words and symbols in his vandalism of posters of hostages held in captivity by Hamas

Mircea Iulian Pripoae, 33, was charged with the willful promotion of hatred against an identifiable group and uttering threats in February, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Pripoae turned himself in last Thursday and was released with court-ordered conditions until his court date.

"We support everyone's right to express themselves peacefully, respectfully, and lawfully," VPD Constable Tania Visintin said in a statement. "We will not tolerate actions, behavior, or speech that promotes hatred, and we hope this sends a clear message about how committed we are to investigating all hate crimes."

Appreciation of the investigation

The Center for Israel and Jewish Affairs on Tuesday welcomed the charges against the suspect and thanked the VPD for its investigation. "We hope this encourages more people to come forward if they see or experience an antisemitic hate incident," CIJA said on Tuesday.

CIJA noted a VPD January report warning that there was a 62 percent increase in antisemitic incidents in 2023 compared to 2022. Thirty-three of the 47 reported...