Community Searches For Answers Weeks After Murder Of Rabbi
NORTH MIAMI BEACH (CBSMiami) - A community stood united Monday night as members continue to look for answers in the death of a rabbi murdered while walking to synagogue to pray.
"We feel like we're under attack and we really need to see the response that's coming from the community leaders from law enforcement about what can be done to being this to an end," said Steve Glueck.
Glueck is among those wanting to end the unnerving feeling that has swept through the primarily Jewish neighborhood.
"I personally feel not as safe as I did a month ago," said Michael Levin.
"I carry mace around, you never know you need some protection, you never know police can't be there every minute," added Laraine Stern.
Investigators said Rabbi Joseph Raksin was shot to death by two young men in early August in northeast Miami-Dade in what was likely a botched robbery.
"While the crime rate is low and the crime is down significantly, one crime especially this nature has evoked significant fear. One crime is too many," said Sally Heyman, a Miami-Dade County Commissioner.
Detectives announced to about 100 community members who attended the meeting that they have made significant progress, but can't prematurely release details on the investigation.
"We will not rest until we solve this case," said Andy Glass with Miami-Dade's Police Homicide Bureau.
Since the murder, neighborhood patrols have increased, but police said they need the community to act as their eyes and ears.
It's about getting rid of the fear factor through education and empowerment.
"Try to unite community in looking for solutions," added Mayor George Vallejo of North Miami Beach.
"Do whatever we can do to help keep our streets safe most families in our neighborhood have small children so were all concerned about them," said Levin.
If you have any information contact Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.
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