Vandals have shamefully torn down a poster of a 14-year-old Jewish girl, Esther “Esty,” who has been missing in Toronto for over a week. The flyers, which provided details about her disappearance, were affixed to lampposts and utility poles but were stripped away, according to reports.
Although some remnants of the poster remain, the act has caused significant outrage. Images shared on social media depict the aftermath of this vandalism.
Speaking to CBC, a Toronto police representative noted that while removing these posters isn’t necessarily a crime, the public’s response has been one of anger. Maureen Leshem, legal counsel for the family, described the behavior as “disturbing and cruel,” emphasizing that it should alarm everyone in the community as a family seeks information about their missing child.
Leshem also raised concerns about potential anti-Semitic motivations behind the vandalism, suggesting it could negatively impact search efforts. She stated, “Whether it’s intentional or not, the effect is the same: it hinders efforts to spread awareness and may ultimately hinder the search for Esty.”
Esty has been missing since shortly after midnight on May 16, last seen about three miles south of Earl Bales Park in North York. At the time, she was wearing a turquoise sweater adorned with text, gray sweatpants, and no shoes. Authorities have indicated that Esty is on the autism spectrum, which raises additional concerns.
Her mother, Sheila, expressed deep worry, noting that while her daughter is “very, very smart,” her father, Joseph, remarked on how one might not realize she is on the spectrum just from chatting with her. He added, “You might think she’s 25 instead of 14,” highlighting how her cognitive abilities set her apart.
In terms of search efforts, the Toronto police are conducting a Level 1 investigation, which includes deploying various resources like dogs, mounted units, and marine teams.
A volunteer group from New York, Shomrim, a Jewish civilian patrol, has joined local efforts to find Esty. Supervisor Stuart Sugar explained that they began searching from the park where she was last seen, progressively expanding their search area throughout the city.
A QR code has also been set up for the public to share any videos or photos related to Esty with law enforcement.
