Commonwealth's sole Jewish sheriff proclaims Bucks County stands united against Antisemitism

Bucks County is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. It's a community known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and most importantly, its people. We pride ourselves on being welcoming and inclusive, a place where everyone feels safe and respected. However, recent events and broader trends remind us that we cannot be complacent in the face of hate.

Antisemitism, the age-old prejudice against the Jewish people, is not just a problem "elsewhere" – it is a concern right here in Pennsylvania. As your Sheriff, and as the only Jewish sheriff in the Commonwealth, I bring a unique awareness and perspective to the critical issue of combating antisemitism. My priority remains the safety and security of every resident, and this includes protecting all communities within Bucks County from all forms of hate and discrimination.

As your Sheriff, my priority is the safety and security of every resident. This means protecting all communities within Bucks County from all forms of hate and discrimination. Antisemitism is a particularly insidious form of hate, with a long and painful history. We cannot ignore the reports from organizations like the ADL that highlight incidents of extremism and antisemitism in our own region. Even one incident is too many. Each incident represents a violation of our community values and an attack on the sense of security for our Jewish neighbors.

We must acknowledge that antisemitism can manifest in different ways, from hateful graffiti and online rhetoric to verbal harassment and, tragically, even violence. It is crucial to recognize these signs and take them seriously. Silence and inaction are not options.

So, what can we do here in Bucks County to combat antisemitism?

• Education and Awareness: Knowledge is our strongest weapon against ignorance and prejudice. We need to promote education about Jewish history, culture, and the dangers of antisemitism in our schools, community centers, and places of worship. Understanding and empathy are essential to building bridges and breaking down stereotypes.
• Vigilance and Reporting: We must be vigilant and report any incidents of antisemitism to law enforcement. If you see something, say something. The Bucks County Sheriff's Office is committed to investigating all credible reports of hate crimes and bias incidents thoroughly and taking appropriate action.
• Community Partnerships: Combating antisemitism requires a community-wide effort. We must strengthen partnerships between law enforcement, religious institutions, community organizations, and educational institutions. By working together, we can create a united front against hate and provide support to those who are targeted.
• Standing in Solidarity: It is vital that we stand in solidarity with our Jewish neighbors. When one community is targeted by hate, it affects us all. We must speak out against antisemitism whenever and wherever we see it. Let our Jewish friends and neighbors know that they are valued, respected, and an integral part of the Bucks County family.

Let me be clear: there is no place for antisemitism in Bucks County. As Sheriff, I am committed to working alongside all members of our community to ensure that Bucks County remains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive place for everyone, regardless of their faith or background. Rest assured, this Sheriff's Office will actively partner with the community to identify threats and take decisive action to protect all citizens from hate and discrimination.

About the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office

Led by Sheriff Frederick A. Harran, the Bucks County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is a vital law enforcement agency serving the over 630,000 residents of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Sheriff Harran, with over 38 years of law enforcement experience, directs a team of 95 professionals, including 76 sworn deputies, in providing essential services such as court security, warrant execution, civil process, Sheriff's sales, and gun permit administration. The BCSO is committed to proactive community engagement and strong partnerships with the 39 local police departments and state/federal agencies operating within Bucks County. The office operates 24/7 to ensure public safety and uphold justice. For more information, visit bit.ly/BucksSheriff