New Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Vandalizing Rutgers Islamic Center

Jacob Beacher admits to breaking into the Center for Islamic Life during Eid-al-Fitr, facing up to three years in prison.

Jacob Beacher, 24, was caught on surveillance footage breaking into the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University in April.
During the break-in, Beacher damaged religious artifacts and stole items including a Palestinian flag and a charity box.
The incident occurred during the Muslim holiday of Eid-al-Fitr, interfering with religious observance at the university.
Federal prosecutors charged Beacher with a hate crime, highlighting the Islamophobic nature of the vandalism.
Authorities responded swiftly, arresting Beacher within days, underscoring their commitment to protecting religious sites.