U.S. Justice Department Joins Pine Bush Bullying Investigation

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- The United States Justice Department has joined an investigation into allegations of anti-Semitic harassment at an Orange County school.

State agencies have also been looking into whether the Pine Bush Central School District allowed Jewish students to be bullied.

Neighbors rallied in the Orange County municipality Sunday night, saying the good name of their town has been besmirched following the reports of the anti-Semitic bullying.

As CBS 2's Hazel Sanchez reported, car horns honked in support of dozens of mothers, fathers, teachers and students, who were linked arm-in-arm with a message.

"I want them to look at this line, and I want them to see the interlock of love and respect and acceptance of all different colors, race and religion," said Lula Tartaglione.

"We are a loving, caring community," added Annette Kahrs, "and we don't deserve to be painted in such a negative fashion."

Three families have filed a federal lawsuit against the district over swastikas and other messages of hate that were found in the schools. They alleged school officials turned a blind eye to years of anti-Semitic bullying by students.

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