NYPD deploys additional officers around NYC during Passover holiday
NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Jewish spring holiday of Passover begins at sundown Wednesday night.
While there aren't any specific security threats in New York City, the NYPD still has extra security around the city as a precaution.
The NYPD held a briefing on the matter last week.
Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell said the NYPD would deploy additional resources around synagogues and other sensitive areas.
"We are always concerned about hate crimes," Sewell said last week. "While one is too many, we have seen a drop by about 50% this year. But that is not enough. We will stomp it out, we cannot tolerate it, we will never accept it. "
The commissioner also said hate crimes in New York City have dropped by 50% this year, after the anti-defamation league reported they hit all-time highs last year.
Two separate threats made to synagogues last November were foiled thanks to the help of the community.
Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement ahead of Passover Seder saying:
"Tonight, many New Yorkers will observe Passover Seder, a tradition that has been passed down by generations of Jewish families. The Passover story retold around the Seder table is a beautiful reminder of the power of faith, the importance of family and the value of freedom.
"New York is proud to have the largest Jewish population anywhere outside the State of Israel. As your Governor, I am committed to doing everything in my power to support this community, which is a vital part of our New York family. We will continue fighting antisemitism in all forms and lifting up the voices of New York's welcoming, diverse Jewish communities.
"To all New Yorkers celebrating tonight: Chag Kasher V'Sameah - may you have a happy, meaningful Passover."
RELATED | Anti-Defamation League reports 39% spike in antisemitic incidents in New York in 2022
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