Authorities have charged a Bronx man with hate crimes following an incident at Manhattan’s Central Synagogue. Larry Montes, 46, faces two counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of criminal mischief as a hate crime, among other charges. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch provided the details in a statement.
The incident occurred during Friday night Shabbat services when Montes disrupted the event and attacked two people. As security escorted him out, he struck a congregation member and damaged synagogue property. He also spat at and head-butted a security team member. A police sergeant on duty for extra security immediately detained Montes, preventing any serious injuries.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his horror over the attack on a live-streamed service, emphasizing that every New Yorker should practice their religion without fear. Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and Senator Chuck Schumer also condemned the assault.
After the attack, additional police security was deployed, and Shabbat services continued on Saturday. Rabbi Rebecca Thau addressed the situation with the congregation, acknowledging the challenge of focusing on their spiritual practices amid such distressing events.