A man has been charged with several hate crimes after allegedly causing a disturbance during Shabbat services at a synagogue in New York City. The suspect, identified as Larry Montez, 46, from the Bronx, reportedly punched worshipers and attacked security personnel, according to police officials.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch noted that the incident took place at the Central Synagogue on Lexington Street in Manhattan. Montez has been charged with two counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of mischief under the same classification.
Tisch reported that as the synagogue’s security was escorting Montez out, he struck a congregant, damaged property, and then spat on and headbutted a member of the security team. Fortunately, an NYPD sergeant who was on duty at the synagogue quickly intervened and detained Montez.
Luckily, no severe injuries were reported, and the incident is still under investigation. Tisch expressed relief after speaking with the rabbi, stating, “The injured people were evaluated at the scene and are doing well. There are no additional threats known at this time, and we’ve deployed more NYPD personnel to the synagogue.”
New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani shared his horror over the situation, saying he couldn’t imagine the fear that members of the congregation felt during the attack. He emphasized that everyone should be able to practice their faith without the threat of violence: “This despicable act will not be tolerated in our city.”
Interestingly, Tisch reflected on the personal nature of the incident, given her own upbringing at Central Synagogue. She said, “A place of worship should never be a crime scene,” which resonates with the deep significance that such spaces hold for many.
