Abandoned synagogue becomes dumping ground

An abandoned Bronx synagogue is drawing the community’s attention after becoming a hub of filth and trash.
Residents tell News 12 that what was once the Congregation Hope of Israel at 843 Walton Ave. has recently become a property desecrated with garbage.
“It's disrespectful for any community,” says Rabbi Levi Shemtov. “It shouldn't be this way.”
Residents say the Department of Sanitation told them it cannot clean up the garbage on the property because it does not belong to the city.
Resident Steven Harrison tells News 12 that he believes the person acting as the abandoned property owner previously served on the synagogue's board.
News 12 has made several attempts to reach out to this individual but has been unsuccessful in reaching him.