Suspect in vandalism of Fresno business identified, also person of interest for crime at synagogue

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Police have identified a suspect linked to acts of vandalism within the city of Fresno.

Tuesday night, Fresno police arrested 30-year-old Orlando Javier Ramirez in connection to a hate crime at Noah's Ark and Restaurant bakery.

In addition to throwing two rocks at the window, "they also left a newspaper clipping with a handwritten note," said Lt. Bill Dooley with the Fresno Police Dept.

The note states that all Jewish businesses will be targeted. Police say they believe he acted alone and has no ties to any extremist or terrorist groups.

"He has very little criminal history, at least with our agency, and his criminal history is really related to vandalism," said Lt. Dooley.

Court documents show in 2018, Ramirez spent 90 days in the Fresno County jail for indecent exposure, and in July this year, he was charged with felony vandalism over $400.

In this case, Ramirez is being charged with Felony vandalism, felony hate crime and felony criminal threats.

"At this point, those charges are all related to Noah's Ark Restaurant and Bakery. However, Mr. Ramierz is a very strong person of interest in the Temple Beth Israel case," said Lt. Dooley.

Also, on Tuesday morning, an employee at Temple Beth Israel found one of their glass doors broken and a bag with more rocks behind.

Meanwhile, at Noah's Ark, phones are ringing off the hook to show support for the restaurant.

"I came in to say I'm sorry," said Madera resident Mary Cook. "I just want them to know not everybody is like that."

In May, rocks were also thrown at their door, and while police are not sure if it's the same suspect, co-owner Ani Baghramyan says they are grateful someone is now in custody and hopes it won't happen again.

"It's a relief that even though we didn't know who did it the first time, we at least know that the person who did it for the second time will serve with justice," said Baghramyan.

Baghramyan added that it's about the Baklava and chicken plates.

"It was very warming to feel all the care and love from our community, and we are still here to serve you delicious Armenian food."

Police are still investigating the hate incident that occurred yesterday at Temple Beth Israel and are still working to determine if Ramirez is responsible.

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