Teen charged for kicking door of Jewish center at University of Michigan

The 18-year-old is facing a misdemeanor charge of prowling after the incident.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 1:23pm

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An 18-year-old man has been charged for reportedly kicking the door of a Jewish resource center at the University of Michigan and yelling anti-Semitic slurs. The teen is facing a misdemeanor charge of prowling and is not affiliated with the university.

Why it matters

This incident is part of a concerning pattern of anti-Semitic incidents targeting Jewish students at the University of Michigan. The university and local authorities have been investigating several other recent assaults and harassment of Jewish students in the area.

The details

According to surveillance footage, the 18-year-old was seen kicking the front door of the Jewish Resource Center around 1:42 a.m. on October 26th. He could also be heard yelling 'F--- Israel, F--- the Jewish people' as he ran away. There was no damage to the center, which serves as a community hub for Jewish students.

  • The incident occurred around 1:42 a.m. on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
  • The charge was authorized in November 2025 in the 15th District Court.
  • The teen was seen before 15th District Judge Karen Valvo on January 8th and is set to appear again on February 12th before Judge Tamara Garwood.

The players

Jewish Resource Center

A Jewish community center at the University of Michigan that hosts Shabbat meals and serves as a hub for Jewish students.

Ann Arbor Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating this incident and other recent anti-Semitic acts targeting Jewish students in the area.

15th District Court

The court where the 18-year-old's case is being heard, with Judge Karen Valvo and Judge Tamara Garwood presiding.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 12th whether or not to allow the 18-year-old to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing problem of anti-Semitism and targeted harassment of Jewish students at the University of Michigan. Local authorities are taking these cases seriously, but more work is needed to address the root causes and ensure the safety and inclusion of all students on campus.