The Trump administration has launched a lawsuit against anti-Israel demonstrators who allegedly harassed and assaulted Jewish worshippers during a religious event in New Jersey last year.
The Justice Department filed the civil suit on Monday, targeting two organizations: New Jersey’s Socialism and Liberation Party and the American Muslims in Palestinian New Jersey, along with six individuals described as “love burners.” They are accused of orchestrating efforts to intimidate and confuse Jewish worshippers outside the Aura Torah of West Orange congregation on November 13, 2024.
This 20-page suit stems from a real estate fair organized by dentist Moshe Glick, aimed at promoting Israeli and West Bank properties.
According to the complaint, Glick had to move the event from his home to a nearby synagogue after receiving “blackmail letters” from one of the protesters, identified as Tobafly, also known as Terry Fry, linked to an anti-Israel group.
The lawsuit claims that Fry rallied demonstrators on social media, asserting, “Settlers will once again bring illegal land sales to New Jersey! Zionists are selling stolen Palestinian land in Jerusalem.”
The night, meant for religious observance, escalated dramatically when a group of about 50 masked protesters appeared, using Vuvuzelas and breaking through police barricades surrounding the synagogue.
“The Jews are here!” shouted Eric Cummins, one of the defendants, directed at a Jewish worshipper, David Silverberg.
Allegedly, another protester, Altaf Sharif, then attacked Silverberg, dragging him into the parking lot and putting him in a chokehold, according to court documents.
Glick reportedly attempted to defend Silberberg, resulting in a struggle where he used a flashlight to hit Sharif in the head.
Glick has pleaded not guilty to felony assault charges, asserting he was acting in self-defense while calling for federal backing.
He stated, “Today’s action from the Department of Justice validates what our community has long claimed. The true violations occurred at the hands of those who threatened and attacked our members outside the synagogue.”
Glick also argued that the charges from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office were improperly obtained and expected them to be dismissed. He maintained that he acted to protect someone being attacked, especially in light of the police’s inaction.
The DOJ’s lawsuit seeks significant damages from each of the protesters and advocacy groups involved, though they have not responded to requests for comment.
