West Valley man accused of hate crime after Phoenix synagogue defaced

A Glendale man has been charged with a hate crime after a synagogue was defaced last July, authorities announced Wednesday.

Kevin Charles Pyles, 33, was indicted of the intentional defacement of religious real property in connection with an incident at Sha’arei Shalom Congregation, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona.

What is man facing hate crime charge accused of doing to Phoenix synagogue?

The indictment alleges Pyles defaced Sha’arei Shalom Congregation, a Phoenix synagogue near 13th and Grovers avenues, on July 11, 2025, after posting an antisemitic flyer on the synagogue’s front door.

Pyles had previously pleaded guilty in Maricopa County Superior Court to making threats targeting the Jewish congregation at Sha’arei Shalom.

U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine, the top federal prosecutor in Arizona, said this indictment sends an important message to the Valley community.

“We will not tolerate the defacement or destruction of any house of worship,” Courchaine said. “Members of the Arizona community should feel free to worship without the fear of harassment.”

Related

Arizona man charged with hate crime for synagogue fireMCSO boosts patrols at houses of worship after deadly Michigan synagogue attackUMOM program sees surging demand for 24/7 summer heat shelterGap Factory, Ann Taylor Factory, Sierra coming to Desert RidgeWestbound Interstate 10 reopens near Buckeye after crash2 West Valley industrial buildings sold in record-breaking deal