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After months of harassment, verbal abuse, and threats directed at Rabbi Zushe Cunin, the Rebbe’s Shliach in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, and members of the local Chabad community, authorities have arrested the primary suspect in the case. Bruce Lyon, 64, a member of a prominent American business family.

According to the California District Attorney’s Office, Lyon has been charged with three felony counts, including hate crime-related offenses and criminal threats. In one of the incidents, prosecutors allege that he threatened Rabbi Cunin during Shabbos Davening, shouting, “I’m going to kill you.” The court ordered that he remain in custody and set bail at $225,000.

According to members of the community, the campaign of harassment began shortly after Lyon moved into a mansion adjacent to the Chabad House.

At first, the incidents consisted of blasting loud music and intentionally disrupting prayer services. Over time, however, they escalated into antisemitic slurs, severe verbal abuse, and threats made in front of congregants, including women and children.

Rabbi Cunin said that several complaints had been filed with police over the past few months, but only after sufficient evidence had accumulated was the suspect arrested and formally indicted.

“I have never encountered behavior like this, certainly not in front of young children,” Rabbi Cunin said following the arrest.

Bruce Lyon belongs to the family that owns Lion Raisins, one of the world’s largest raisin companies.

Following the arrest, the company released an official statement clarifying that Lyon is not involved in the company’s day-to-day management and emphasizing that it strongly condemns antisemitism, racism, and every form of hatred.

According to reports in the United States, Lyon has a history of prior encounters with law enforcement, including cases involving criminal threats, violent offenses, and weapons-related charges. Makes you wonder why he was roaming freely.

Despite the prolonged harassment, Rabbi Cunin emphasized that the Chabad House will continue operating as usual. He said that the proper response to hatred is to increase light, joy, and Jewish pride, in accordance with the Rebbe’s teachings.

The legal proceedings against Lyon are ongoing, and he has not been convicted of the charges. If convicted on all counts, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.

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