Stolen Torah scrolls mysteriously returned to Midwood synagogue

October 28, 2016 By Mary Frost Brooklyn Daily Eagle

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Four Torah scrolls stolen from a Midwood synagogue Tuesday morning were unexpectedly returned in the early morning hours on Friday.

The scrolls were found in four large garbage bags by a person studying at the Shul until 1:30 a.m., according to Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn).

Security surveillance footage shows a man double-parked and placing the four bags outside the Rabbi Beyda Shul, located at 808 Avenue O near East 8th St.

“The community is overjoyed at the return of the Sifrei Torah,” Hikind said in a statement. “The Torah scrolls represent the heart of the Jewish people, and as the Sabbath approaches, we breathe a sigh of relief knowing our Torah scrolls are safely back in our possession.”

Police are investigating the footage, Hikind said.

“While we appreciate and are very thankful for the return of the Sifrei Torah, we look forward to justice being served,” Hikind added.

Security video taken during the time of the robbery shows a man wearing a yarmulke removing the scrolls, which are valued at $240,000, according to AP.

City Councilman David Greenfield (D-Brooklyn) offered a $1,000 reward for information about the thief.