NYPD Recover Stolen Brooklyn Torah Valued at $30,000

A Brooklyn Torah that was reported to be in the trunk of a stolen car, and is estimated to be worth around $30,000 was found, according to NYPD officials.

By Rachel Hirshfeld

 

A Torah that was reported to be stolen and estimated to be worth around $30,000 was found, according to officials.

The Brooklyn Torah, belonging to Rabbi Binyamin Tamaiev of Congregation Agudath Sholom of Flatbush, was reportedly found inside the rabbi’s stolen car.

His gray 2007 Toyota Corolla was stolen from the 3700 block of 18th Avenue on Saturday evening with the rabbi’s personal belongings as well as the $30,000 Torah, police said.

The thief, who also stole money from charity boxes, may not have known that the scroll was in the trunk — along with five sets of tefillin, according to CBS News.

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn), who had pleaded for the safe return of the Torah earlier, expressed relief at its recovery Monday.

“The safety and sanctity of a Torah scroll means a great deal to our community,” Hikind said in a news release. “The speedy recovery of this sacred scroll is a testimony to our ability to work together and the dedication of our extraordinary Police Commander Mike Dedo. Every last one of us will sleep easier tonight.”

Earlier a $3,000 reward had been offered for information leading to the scrolls’ safe return.

A tip from an unidentified person led police to the car. It is unclear whether he accepted the monetary reward.

 

View original Arutz Sheva publication at: http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/164445#.UP8-iWfw6G0