Goodman Acker law firm in Southfield vandalized with anti-Israel graffiti, spray paint

Vandals spray-painted obscenities and anti-Israel graffiti across the entrance to the Goodman Acker law firm in Southfield early Monday, using wording that leaders of the firm said was antisemitic targeting the firm's senior partner Jordan Acker, a Jewish member of the University of Michigan board of regents.

Red and black paint covered the firm’s sign with phrases that included "Free Palestine," "Divest now," "F*** You Acker" and "UM Kills." The vandals also left red handprints on the doors.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the incident in a statement Monday that said: "Violence, vandalism, threats and intimidation are unacceptable, and what we saw today in Southfield is abhorrent. We must remain united in calling out hatred of any kind and continue working together toward peace in Michigan.” 

Southfield police Chief Elvin Barren said his department was investigating the incident as hate crime. Barren spoke on Monday afternoon, joining a gathering of the firm's partners, including Acker, along with community leaders, to denounce the graffiti.