Man facing hate crime charges after disrupting services at Central Synagogue: NYPD
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- A 46-year-old Bronx man has been arrested and charged with hate crimes following an assault during Shabbat services at Central Synagogue in Manhattan, according to the NYPD.
Police identified the suspect as Larry Montes. He was charged with two counts of assault as a hate crime and criminal mischief as a hate crime, among other charges, after disrupting services at 652 Lexington Avenue.
As security was removing Montes, he struck a 63-year-old woman, damaged synagogue property and spit at and headbutted a member of the security team, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said.
An NYPD sergeant working detail at the synagogue immediately stepped in and took him into custody, Tisch said.
Tisch said there are no additional threats at this time.
"Central Synagogue is where I grew up. In joy and in sorrow, it has always been a place of comfort and peace," Tisch said.
Mayor Mamdani released a statement on social media saying in part, "I am horrified by the assault at Central Synagogue during services today. I can only imagine the pain and fear an attack like this, during Shabbat services, causes for the congregation and for Jewish New Yorkers across our city. Every New Yorker must be able to observe their religion without fear of violence."
NY Attorney General Letitia James released a statement saying, "The assault during services at Central Synagogue today is appalling and unacceptable. No one should feel threatened in their place of worship. I am relieved that everyone is okay and recovering, and my heart is with the Central Synagogue community this evening."
Governor Kathy Hochul said what happened at Central Synagogue was 'appalling.'
Officials continued to react to the alleged hate crime on Saturday morning. Council Speaker Julie Menin, whose family worships at the synagogue, called the congregation a place of solace and community. She said the assault on a congregant during Shabbat services has heightened fears among Jewish New Yorkers.
Sen. Chuck Schumer said the incident at Central Synagogue highlights growing concerns about antisemitism and the safety of Jewish Americans.
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
