Stolen Statue of Holocaust Survivor Recovered in Las Vegas

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This statue represents the bond of brotherhood and the memories of the past.

News Summary

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police have successfully recovered a statue stolen from Holocaust survivor Stephen Nasser’s home. The statue, meaningful to Nasser due to its representation of his late brother, was found after a tip from an off-duty officer. Nasser, the sole survivor in his family, expressed gratitude for the return of the statue, which he purchased years ago while chronicling his Holocaust experiences. The police continue to investigate the theft while Nasser’s advocacy against antisemitism remains steadfast.

Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) has recovered a statue stolen from 94-year-old Holocaust survivor Stephen Nasser’s home. The statue, depicting two boys with one climbing a ladder, holds significant personal meaning for Nasser, representing his bond with his late brother Andres, who died in his arms at Auschwitz during the Holocaust.

Nasser, the sole survivor among his 21 family members who perished in Nazi death camps, purchased the statue approximately ten years ago. The acquisition occurred while he was writing a play titled “Not Yet, Pista,” which details his experiences at Auschwitz. Upon the statue’s theft several weeks ago, Nasser expressed deep devastation, prompting the LVMPD to release photos of the statue to the public in hopes of recovering it.

The turning point came when an off-duty Metro officer spotted the stolen statue. Following this lead, officers and detectives from the LVMPD’s Summerlin Area Command promptly intervened, securing the statue and ensuring it was returned to Nasser. Upon receiving the news of the recovery, Nasser was initially unable to process the information, relaying his disbelief and calling the situation a miracle. Precautions were taken to secure the statue upon its recovery, with officers cabling it to a tree using a long steel cable.

Emerging from the tragic events of the Holocaust, Nasser has dedicated his life to preserving his brother’s memory and advocating against antisemitism. His literary contributions include two books, “My Brother’s Voice” and “Journey to Freedom,” both of which recount his harrowing experiences in concentration camps and the lessons learned from those dark times. Nasser’s advocacy work has garnered him numerous honors, including a proclamation designating August 8 as “Stephen Nasser Day.” His impactful efforts have even attracted international attention, including commendations from notable figures like former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

In addition to his literary works, Nasser’s contributions to education are significant, with his writings incorporated into the curriculum of German schools. He has also received the Humanitarian Award from the FBI for his tireless dedication to fighting against antisemitism.

Nasser has voiced his concerns regarding the alarming rise of antisemitism, comparing it to the overwhelming presence of hatred experienced in Hungary during 1943. This ongoing fight for acceptance and understanding reflects the urgency of his work amidst a changing social landscape.

Despite the recovery of the statue, the LVMPD has confirmed that the investigation into the theft remains active. Authorities are diligently pursuing leads to ensure accountability for this incident, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and support in recovering stolen property.

Nasser continues to advocate for remembrance and education regarding the Holocaust, seeking to ensure that the lessons of the past are not forgotten as society navigates the present and future. His life’s work serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing against hatred.