With Passover approaching, the NYPD is ramping up security at synagogues across New York City in response to a troubling rise in antisemitic hate crimes. Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized that ensuring the safety of worshippers is a top priority.
“No one should have to feel unsafe while practicing their faith,” Tisch stated during a press conference alongside Mayor Eric Adams and other city officials. “As we do every year, we’re increasing police presence around synagogues, with uniformed officers assigned to patrol houses of worship.”
According to NYPD data, Jewish residents have been disproportionately targeted, with 62% of all reported hate crimes in the city directed at them. Deputy Inspector Gary Marcus, head of the department’s Hate Crimes Task Force, called the statistics “staggering” and noted that the trend has continued to escalate.
“The numbers don’t lie,” Marcus said. “Antisemitic incidents are the single largest category of hate crimes in New York City.”
In 2024 alone, reported hate crimes against Jews have increased by 7% compared to the previous year, totaling 345 incidents. This represents over half of all hate crimes committed in the city, reflecting a concerning pattern of bias-motivated attacks.
Several recent incidents highlight the growing concern. A Jewish student at Columbia University was assaulted twice last year, with the latest attack occurring in December when an anti-Israel protester allegedly punched him and called him a Nazi. In another case, a Jewish barber in Yonkers was reportedly stabbed with his own scissors by a man shouting antisemitic slurs. Additionally, a swastika was defaced onto the Second Avenue Deli in October, underscoring the continued rise in targeted vandalism.
Mayor Adams acknowledged the distress within the Jewish community, particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel.
“This is a crucial time for Jewish New Yorkers,” Adams said. “We’ve witnessed a wave of hate since October 7, and we stand firmly against it. Our message is clear—if you see something, say something.”
The mayor also stressed the importance of community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement, urging residents to remain proactive in reporting suspicious activity.
“We will continue to support and protect this community, just as we do every Passover,” Adams assured.
With heightened security measures in place, city officials are working to ensure that those celebrating Passover can do so in peace, without fear of violence or intimidation.
