Attacker of Beverly Hills Jewish Couple Hit with Charges that Could Lead to a Life Sentence

December 13, 2023 - Charges have been brought against a man accused of attacking an elderly Jewish couple on their way to synagogue in Beverly Hills. Jarris Jay Silagi, 44, of Los Angeles was charged yesterday by the Los Angeles County District Attorney with one count of attempted second-degree robbery; one count of elder or dependent adult abuse, infliction of injury; one count of assault with a deadly weapon; and two counts of assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury. It is further alleged that Silagi caused great bodily injury during the commission of the crime.

The incident occurred on Saturday morning, December 9 at 9:03 am, according to the Beverly Hills Police Department. A 75-year-old man wearing a yarmulke was walking with his wife to synagogue in the area of North Rexford Drive and North Santa Monica Blvd. Silagi allegedly came up from behind and struck the man with a belt, cutting his head and causing bleeding. According to the man's son in a post on social media, Jarris then said, "Give me your earrings, Jew," to the wife.

The victim was treated at the scene by the Beverly Hills Fire Department and did not require further medical attention.

The victim's son claims his father chased the suspect, who was then arrested by the BHPD, but the official press release simply says that during a search by police personnel for the departed suspect, a BHPD senior forensic specialist witnessed the suspect fleeing, after which police were able to detain and identify Silagi.

DA George Gascon stated publicly that "Such acts of Antisemitism have no place in our community, and we continue to be committed to ensuring justice prevails and holding the defendant accountable. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those who continue to be targeted for their faith. My office's Hate Crimes Unit will work diligently to bring justice to the victims." However, no hate crime enhancement was in the charges brought to bear, according to his office's press release. However, the Beverly Hills Police Department had said that 422.75 PC – Hate Crime was charged.

Silagi has reportedly been arrested 20 times prior to this incident with dates going back as far as 2009. Gascon has requested Silagi be held on $1,310,000 bail. If sentenced as charged, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Gascon is known for opposing cash bail and for giving offenders diversion and light sentences, all of which he has stated reduce crime.