Protestors should be denounced

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton) released the following statement re: A protest gone awry at a luncheon hosted at the Temple Israel Congregation in Westport for Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. According to Congregation Leaders at no time was any one in physical danger and no weapons were found. The suspects are in police custody.

“It is one thing to stand on public property and peacefully protest regarding something you believe in no matter how objectionable some find it. It is another matter however, to barge into a luncheon filled with women and children shouting in a menacing way.

“The intruders were forcibly restrained after creating panic. The terrified guests had to flee from the building. This menacing act from one suspect who was identified by officials as a student from the Yale Divinity School even forced lock downs in neighboring elementary schools. It is outrageous behavior and unacceptable!

“I call on the Yale Administration to condemn and take the strongest possible action regarding this student. The Divinity program should be a model for peace, tolerance and understanding of all religions in the often hostile world we live in.

“I’m very proud of the Congregation and Westport police for taking control of this awful situation.”