GUILFORD — Two brothers have been arrested for allegedly vandalizing a Chanukah menorah on the Guilford Town Green, police announced Monday.
Steven Prinz Jr., 25, and Troy Prinz, 22, both of Guilford, were charged with intimidation based on bigotry or bias in the second degree, conspiracy to commit intimidation based on bigotry or bias, criminal mischief in the first degree, and conspiracy to commit criminal mischief.
The incident occurred on Jan. 5 when surveillance footage captured two masked individuals knocking down and stomping on the menorah, breaking several components before fleeing the scene.
Police said the damage was initially reported as being caused by high winds, but the menorah’s owner later provided video evidence showing it was intentionally vandalized.
The suspects had their identities concealed during the incident, with one wearing what appeared to be a gas mask and the other with a garment wrapped around his face.
Both men were released on $25,000 court-set bonds following their arrests.
The Guilford Police Department credited community cooperation as essential to identifying and apprehending the suspects in what they investigated as a hate crime.
“This arrest was made possible due to the strong support and partnership we have come to expect and enjoy between the police department and our community members,” the department stated in a news release.
