Burbank PD News Release: Hate-Motivated Graffiti Investigation Leads to Juvenile Arrest

A 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with hate-motivated graffiti vandalism at Temple Emanu El.

On February 16, 2026, Burbank Police officers responded to the synagogue, located in the 1300 block of North Glenoaks Boulevard, after two large swastikas were found painted on the building's exterior wall. Officers canvassed the area for witnesses and surveillance footage, and detectives began an extensive follow-up investigation.

Through investigative efforts, detectives identified a juvenile suspect who was also connected to a separate hate-related incident at Los Angeles Mission College, where Neo-Nazi recruitment materials had been posted on campus. 

On February 26, 2026, detectives served a search warrant at the suspect’s residence in Sunland, with assistance from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Major Crimes Bureau. During the search, investigators located evidence believed to be associated with the crime.

The juvenile was arrested for violation of California Penal Code sections 594(b)(1) (felony vandalism), 422.6 (hate-motivated graffiti), and 11411 (defacing a place of worship with a symbol intended to terrorize). 

The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Juvenile Division, for filing consideration.

The Burbank Police Department participates in the Los Angeles County Hate Crime Task Force alongside other Los Angeles County law enforcement agencies and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In this case, Burbank detectives worked closely with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau Hate Crime Task Force to identify the suspect and bring the investigation to a successful resolution.

The Burbank Police Department takes incidents of hate and bias-motivated crimes seriously and remains committed to protecting all members of our community.

                                                                   ###

Questions regarding this statement should be directed to Lieutenant Brent Fekety at (818) 238-3231 or [email protected].