Brookline Deli Owner Says His Business Is Repeat Target Of Vandalism

BROOKLINE, MA — A Jewish deli owner is speaking out after the most recent case of vandalism at his business.

Steven Peljovich said approximately 40 incidents of vandalism have occurred at his business at 256 Harvard St. since the events in Gaza between Israel and Palestine began back in the fall of 2023. Peljovich filed his first police report in the aftermath of the most recent incident, in which a sticker that read “End the Israeli occupation of Palestine” was placed over a photo of his family on the deli’s front window.

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Peljovich claims that his establishment is the only business in the area that has been targeted, and that is what bothers him the most.

“It wouldn’t bother me so much if it was on the door/windows of other businesses or street signs around me and not just the proudly Jewish owned business,” Peljovich said in a statement on social media. “I’d love for whomever these people are to try to put these stickers on the business during our operating hours as opposed to when we’re closed and nobody’s around.”

Brookline police are now investigating the series of incidents. rabbis and lawmakers are planning to gather at the deli on Friday afternoon, in an event organized by the American Jewish Committee and Anti Defamation League.

Michael’s Deli was founded in 1977 by Michael Sobelman. Originally located in the town of Marblehead, the business relocated to Brookline in 2002. Peljovich bought the business ten years later and has operated it ever since.

Peljovich said he has no issues with specific people’s beliefs however he wishes they did not result in his business being targeted, according to a report from Brookline News.

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