More than $7,500 in reward monies is offered for information leading to an arrest after investigators say someone intentionally set fire to Chabad Center for Jewish Life in Southwest Portland.
The Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Oregon, is asking for the public’s help in the investigation.
On Friday, August 14, at 10:28 pm, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to the report of a fire at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life, located at 2317 Southwest Vermont Street. On Wednesday, August 19, at 2:44 am, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to another fire at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life. Arson Investigators are asking for the public’s help with any information related to these fires or video footage of activity in the area from 8 to 11 pm, on Friday, August 14; and, from 1 to 3 am on Wednesday, August 19.
At this point in the investigation, there is no suspect information. Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 for information that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters can remain anonymous.
In addition to the Crime Stoppers reward, StandWithUs, an international non-profit organization whose core mission includes combating anti-semitism, in partnership with Mizel Family Foundation, has pledged an additional $5,000 reward.
This award is offered to anyone with information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the active investigation of two fires that happened at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life on August 14 and 19.
A statement was given on Oct. 8 by Commissioner Joann Hardesty, “As the Commissioner in charge of Portland Fire & Rescue, I want to assure the leadership and membership of the Chabad SW Portland – Center for Jewish Life that the crimes committed against their community this last month will not be taken lightly. I have spoken with Fire Chief Sara Boone, who is just committed as I am to finding the details and any perpetrators in this crime. We will also look at how we can prevent crimes like this from happening in the future.
“It is my earnest belief that the Jewish Community and all places of worship should be free of fear and intimidation. If you or someone you know has any information that could help us in this endeavor please reach out to our investigators.”
Submit secure and anonymous tips at www.p3tips.com/823 or call 503-823-4357.
For additional info regarding Stand With Us and the reward they are offering, contact Randy Kessler at 206-686-3419.
