A man has been charged with multiple hate crimes following a violent incident at Central Synagogue in New York City on August 14. The disturbance occurred during the Shabbat service, leading to injuries for at least two individuals and concerns about safety within the community.
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The New York City Police Department (NYPD) received calls shortly after 6 p.m. local time regarding a disruptive individual identified as Larry Montes, 46, who had become unruly during the religious service. According to reports, Montes was escorted out by the synagogue’s security team when he allegedly attacked a 63-year-old female congregant, inflicting a small laceration and causing pain to her lip and right forearm.
In addition to the assault on the congregant, Montes allegedly spat on and headbutted a 65-year-old member of the synagogue’s security personnel. There are also allegations that he caused damage to synagogue property during the incident. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, and it is believed that those affected are recovering well.
The swift response of a sergeant working a paid detail at the synagogue was pivotal, as he immediately intervened and took Montes into custody. Following his arrest, the Bronx resident was charged with multiple offences, including four counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of criminal mischief as a hate crime. Additional charges included counts of harassment, aggravated harassment, and criminal trespass related to the incident.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Montes has secured legal representation to address the charges against him. The NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force is continuing to investigate the events that transpired during the service.
In the aftermath of the attack, public officials expressed their shock and support for the congregation. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who has personal ties to Central Synagogue, described the incident on social media as “deeply painful” and underscored the sanctuary’s significance for many congregants. She emphasised that houses of worship should never be a scene of crime, asserting that places of comfort and peace should remain free from violence.
New York Attorney General Letitia James labelled the assault during the Shabbat service as “appalling and unacceptable.” In her statement, she expressed relief that no life-threatening injuries occurred and extended her support to the Central Synagogue community.
Governor Kathy Hochul and NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani both responded to the incident, with Mamdani specifically highlighting the fear such an attack instils within the Jewish community. He stated that it is imperative for every New Yorker to observe their faith without fear, condemning the attack as a despicable act that has no place in the city.
Community members have rallied in support of Central Synagogue, and officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the area. This incident follows a disturbing trend of anti-Semitic violence, causing heightened anxiety among New Yorkers, particularly those in the Jewish community.
In a statement released shortly after the attack, the leadership of Central Synagogue expressed gratitude to their security team and the NYPD for their prompt action. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue holding services and fostering a sense of community, stating, “We will keep on gathering for joyful, meaningful Judaism with our Central family every week.”
Despite the distressing events, the synagogue resumed its services on August 15, illustrating the resilience of the community in the face of adversity. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in places of worship and the ongoing need for vigilance against hate crimes in all forms. The investigation by the NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force is still active as they work to ensure justice is served.