2 men arrested after investigation into hate graffiti at Hamilton synagogue

Two 19-year-olds from Hamiltonhave been arrested, police say, after hate-based graffiti was scrawled outside a Hamilton synagogue.

The graffiti attheBeth Jacob Synagogue chalk drawings of a swastika and the word 'Jews' crossed out was found infourplaces,including two spots in the parking lot, in a lane, and on the sidewalk of Aberdeen Avenue.

Investigators released surveillance photos showing four suspects Tuesday and say they quickly identified four men.

Two 19-year-olds were arrested and charged with mischief under $5,000.

Two other men, also 19-years-old, were interviewed before "their roles in the incident were established" and they were released without charge.

"Reporting hate crimes and incidents is an important step in stopping the cycle of hatred and preventing others from being victimized," the police service stated in a media release. "It is also important for police to be aware of hate crime so that analysis can be done to ensure appropriate actions are taken and resources put in place."