Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By simmons on June 2, 2017

The 14-year-old boy accused of starting the blaze that destroyed a landmarked Lower East Side synagogue appeared in Manhattan court Wednesday but was released and has yet to be charged.

David Diaz, wearing a maroon hoodie and khaki pants, appeared in Manhattan Family Court for what was supposed to be his arraignment for the May 14 fire.

After a brief meeting with the New York City Law Department, which handles juvenile cases, Diaz left the building. He was accompanied by two dour-looking adults.

We are continuing our investigation into this matter, said a Law Department spokesman. If we file charges on a future date, a press statement will be issued at that time.

Cops arrested Diaz at his Lower East Side home and charged him with felony arson May 16. He was later released without bail to his parents.

Diaz and some pals were inside the abandoned Beth Hamedrash Hagadol synagogue when he allegedly set a curtain ablaze. The inferno quickly spread and gutted the historic 167-year-old building, authorities said.

The troubled teen is also responsible for a May 7 fire at the same synagogue, according to law-enforcement sources.

Police Commissioner James ONeill previously said the crime doesnt appear to be bias-related.

Rabbi Mendel Greenbaum called the fire a tragedy.

Read more:

Kid accused of torching synagogue released without charges - New York Post

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