Stephen Weiss is an American rabbi who served as senior rabbi at B’nai Jeshurun Congregation in Pepper Pike, Ohio, United States. He had been affiliated with the congregation since 2001 and also served in leadership roles within regional Jewish religious organizations, including the Greater Cleveland Board of Rabbis.
On April 18, 2023, Weiss was arrested by law enforcement officers in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, following an investigation conducted by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Authorities stated that the arrest resulted from an undercover operation in which Weiss believed he was communicating with a 15-year-old boy via a social media application.
According to the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, Weiss was accused of sending sexually explicit messages and arranging a meeting with the individual he believed to be a minor. Law enforcement officers arrested him at the arranged meeting location. Reports also indicated that items including condoms and lubricant were recovered from his vehicle during the arrest.
Following the arrest, Weiss faced charges including attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, importuning, and possession of criminal tools. He was released on bond with conditions that included electronic monitoring. The synagogue announced his suspension and removal from duties pending legal proceedings.
