Man With Pit Bull in Shopping Cart Accused of Damaging Coral Springs Synagogue Menorah, Claims He’s ‘In a Movie’

by Ryan Yousefi October 19, 2026

by Ryan Yousefi October 19, 2026 2 minutes read

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Matthew John Ryan {BSO}

Police say a California man with a pit bull in a shopping cart damaged a menorah at Chabad of Coral Springs, then claimed he was in a movie.

According to a Coral Springs Police Department arrest report, Matthew John Ryan, 44, of Winnetka, California, was arrested October 17 on charges of criminal mischief involving a place of worship, resisting an officer without violence, and illegal possession of a shopping cart.

Records show officers responded shortly before 11:00 a.m. after a security officer at Chabad of Coral Springs, 3925 North University Drive, reported witnessing a man ram a shopping cart into the menorah on the synagogue’s property.

Police broadcast a description of the suspect, who reportedly left heading north on University Drive while pushing a cart containing a pit bull. Officers searching the area spotted Ryan walking east on Wiles Road toward University Drive with a cart and dog matching that description, according to the report.

An officer activated his patrol vehicle’s emergency lights, and another officer displayed a Taser while ordering Ryan to get on the ground. Police allege Ryan refused to comply, said he had done nothing wrong, and told officers, “I’m in a production movie.”

According to the affidavit, Ryan then began reaching into a satchel despite repeated commands to stop. Two additional officers approached from behind and brought him to the ground.

Police allege Ryan continued resisting, attempted to grab a sergeant’s Taser from his vest, and pulled his arms away as officers tried to handcuff him. Officers secured him after a brief struggle, the report states.

Police brought the synagogue’s security officer to the arrest location, where he identified Ryan as the man he had seen damage the menorah, according to the affidavit.

Investigators also determined the shopping cart belonged to the Walmart Neighborhood Market at 4650 North University Drive, an additional criminal charge.

Ryan requested medical assistance and was transported to Broward Health Coral Springs, where he also reported right knee pain following the encounter with officers. After medical staff cleared him, officers took him to Broward County’s Main Jail.

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Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiple outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.