Key facts
- Larry Montes, 46, faces hate crime charges for disrupting Shabbat services at Central Synagogue in Manhattan.
Larry Montes, 46, faces hate crime charges for disrupting Shabbat services at Central Synagogue in Manhattan, assaulting two individuals, and damaging property. Officials condemned the attack, emphasizing religious freedom.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about religious freedom and safety in New York City, prompting condemnation from top officials and increased security at places of worship.
Hate crime charges have been filed against Larry Montes, 46, following an incident at Manhattan's Central Synagogue on Saturday evening. Montes disrupted Shabbat services, assaulted two individuals, and damaged synagogue property before being taken into custody. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reported that Montes spit at and head-butted a security team member while being escorted out. The live stream of the service captured the tense moments. Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and Senator Chuck Schumer have all condemned the attack, emphasizing that New Yorkers should be able to practice their religion without fear. Additional police security has been deployed to the synagogue, and services continued on Saturday.