January 4, 2026
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Menorah Vandalized in Santa Monica, Thousands in Damage Caused

This is not the only concern of Antisemitic activity being addressed in Santa Monica during the holiday.

By Zach Armstrong

On the afternoon of Dec. 14, SMPD officers received a report of a vandalized menorah at the corner of 15th and Montana after an unknown assailant caused thousands of dollars in damage to it. 

The incident is currently under investigation. No further details were provided. 

The damage was caused one day before the final evening of Hanukkah. The city along with DTSM held numerous celebrations for the eight-night holiday including nightly lightings on the 1400 block of Third Street (located between Santa Monica Blvd and Broadway). 

This is not the only concern of Anti-Semitic activity being addressed in Santa Monica during the holiday season. Last week, Mirror Media Group reported on a federal investigation underway as Santa Monica College faces accusations of civil rights infringement from a student organization in support of Israel.

 “All month, the #SMPD has extra officers providing high visibility patrols of all our religious institutions.” SMPD said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). “This destruction is a reminder that in this season of holidays and festivities we all need to watch out for the health and welfare of our community.  Acts of hate and intolerance have no place in Santa Monica, and we are committed to maintaining an environment where all residents feel safe and respected.” 

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Santa Monica Police Department at 310-458-8491.

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