1:25PM EST: Detectives from the NYPD along with Crown Heights Shomrim Units are conducting an investigation into the theft of a Sefer Torah at Union Street near Utica Avenue.

Sources tell YWN that the Sefer Torah was left covered inside a vehicle overnight, and was subsequently stolen sometime during the overnight hours.

The NYPD has ordered a Level 1 Mobilization Response due to the cost of the “religious item” which was stolen (worth approximately $40,000).

Apparently, the Sefer Torah was on loan from a Chabad House and was used on the road while doing Kiruv work. The vehicle arrive in Crown Heights during the night, and for reasons which can’t be answered at this time, the Sefer Torah was left unattended in a vehicle on a Crown Heights Street.

(Eli Gefen – YWN Queens HPO Desk)