Southern Oregon University Students Arrested for Vandalizing Chabad Jewish Center

ASHLAND, Ore. – In a shocking incident that took place in December, two Southern Oregon University students have been arrested for vandalizing the Chabad Jewish Center. The Ashland Police Department released a statement confirming that all three individuals involved, including the two arrested students, are SOU students.

On the night of December 14, the trio approached the Chabad Jewish Center. One of them, identified as 18-year-old Zachary Demarest from Corvallis, threw eggs at the center while shouting “Heil Hitler.” This act of hate and vandalism has deeply disturbed the local community.

The Ashland Police Department has taken swift action in this case. Demarest has been identified as the primary perpetrator, responsible for throwing the eggs and promoting Nazi ideology. He has been charged with third-degree criminal mischief and second-degree bias crime. He was instructed to turn himself in and complied with the authorities.

Another student, 18-year-old Jacob Wilhelm, has also been identified and arrested. While Wilhelm did not actively participate in the vandalism, he has been charged with being a co-conspirator due to his encouragement of Demarest’s criminal behavior. Wilhelm faces charges of Bias Crime 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree.

The Ashland Police Department is determined to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in identifying the third individual involved in the incident.

Impact on the Community