A Bronx man, Larry Montes, faces federal hate crime charges after a violent incident at a synagogue in Midtown Manhattan. According to federal prosecutors, Montes admitted in a recorded interview that his actions were racially and religiously motivated.
In the interview, Montes made antisemitic remarks, stating, “F— the Jews … It’s racial,” and expressed disdain for synagogues in general. He faces up to 30 years in prison for two counts of committing hate crimes and one count of destruction of religious property resulting in bodily injury, as noted by the Justice Department.
The incident took place at the Central Synagogue during a Shabbat service attended by 375 people. Prosecutors allege that Montes stood up during the service shouting and damaged two ceremonial silver candlesticks with gold accents. When the head of security attempted to remove him, Montes verbally abused the attendees and struck a female congregant with a closed fist.
Authorities reported that Montes assaulted a security guard who tried to restrain him. He directed a racial slur at the guard, who is Black, and further assaulted him by spitting and headbutting. Montes allegedly threatened to return to the synagogue at a future date.
In addition to federal charges, Montes faces state charges related to the incident. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that the assaulted woman and security guard are recovering well.
Following the attack, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his shock over the violence. He wrote on social media platform X, “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.”
Montes remains in custody as the legal proceedings continue.