Surfside, FL — In the wake of the violent antisemitic attack on a Jewish couple visiting from New York, South Florida leaders and community organizations have come together to denounce hate and reaffirm solidarity with the Jewish community.
Incident Recap
- On Sunday evening, suspect Jorden Stephen Perozo (35) assaulted Abraham and Sophia, a Jewish couple, along Harding Avenue in Surfside.
- Perozo allegedly struck Abraham in the head while shouting “Now you’re going to die” and “Walk away before I kill you.”
- He also made hostile remarks about Israel and Palestinians, calling the victims “evil demons.”
- Police arrested Perozo at his workplace, a Flanigan’s restaurant, charging him with battery with prejudice and harassment based on religion or ethnicity.
Leaders’ Response
- Surfside Interim Police Chief Jay Matelis condemned the attack, promising that such acts of hate “will not be tolerated.”
- Local Jewish organizations emphasized the need for vigilance and stronger community security measures.
- South Florida elected officials joined rabbis and civic leaders in calling for unity, stressing that antisemitism must be confronted at every level of society.
Community Impact
- The incident has heightened concerns about antisemitism in Florida, particularly in Jewish‑populated areas like Surfside and Miami Beach.
- Leaders underscored the importance of education, solidarity, and law enforcement cooperation to protect Jewish residents and visitors.
- The victims expressed gratitude to police for their swift response and vowed not to let the attack deter them from returning to South Florida.
Credit: The Jewish Voice Subscribe to the JFN Website and to the JFN WhatsApp Channel
