🕒 Created · Updated

Larry Montes faces hate crime charges after disrupting Shabbat services at Manhattan's Central Synagogue

Larry Montes, a 46-year-old man from the Bronx, faces hate crime charges after disrupting Shabbat services at Manhattan's Central Synagogue on Friday night. During the service, Montes struck a member of the congregation, damaged synagogue property, and subsequently spit at and head-butted a member of the security team. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that an NYPD sergeant took Montes into custody immediately following the incident, with no serious injuries reported. Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the assault as "horrifying" and stated that the administration will do everything in its power to keep Jewish New Yorkers safe. The incident occurred during a period of rising antisemitic activity, with NYPD data showing that over 50% of hate crimes in New York City are anti-Jewish, despite the Jewish community making up only 10% of the population. Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Chuck Schumer also condemned the attack. Security was heightened for Saturday's worship, with nearly a dozen armed police officers present to ensure the safety of the congregants.

Sources