NYPD Increases Patrols After Violent Incident in DC

The NYPD is stepping up its presence, particularly around synagogues and places of worship, as the Jewish community in New York City prepares for Shabbat following the tragic murder of two Israeli embassy employees in Washington, D.C.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed his outrage over the violent killing of the young couple during a speech at the Jewish History Center. He also criticized recent pro-Palestinian protests in the city, labeling them as acts of anti-Semitism.

“We may not agree on political views,” Adams stated, highlighting the need for unity in the face of violence.

The victims, Yaron Lisinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were reportedly shot at close range after leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum. The alleged shooter, Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, shouted pro-Palestinian slogans as he was taken into custody, according to D.C. police.

Adams compared the NYPD’s initiatives on October 8th to the heightened security measures implemented after the Hamas attacks on Israel. He emphasized that while patrols are increasing, there are no specific threats identified against New York City’s Jewish community.

Opposing local demonstrations that erupted in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza, which escalated following the October 7th attack, Adams said, “I’ve heard people say these protests aren’t anti-Semitic, just anti-Israel. But we need to be careful with such claims.”

The announcement for increased security came days after the death of Lisinsky and Milgrim, which many found deeply troubling.

Josh Kramer, director of the American Jewish Committee, spoke about an event that aimed to address feelings of pain and purpose, reflecting on Milgrim’s significant contributions to public diplomacy efforts for peace between Israel and Palestine. He described her late partner, Lisinsky, as a “welcoming presence” in their community.

Kramer expressed concern about the broader implications of these tensions, saying, “This looks like ‘antifada globalization.’”

With more officers planned to patrol areas around synagogues and similar venues, the community remains on edge yet determined to stand together in the face of adversity.