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Edited by: TJVNews.com
As reported last week there was a threat of the possibility of increased levels of organized anti-Semitic activity organized by white supremacist groups for Shabbos of all days. In response the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO) met before and after Shabbos to evaluate the situation which thankfully did not result in any attacks in the New York metropolitan area.
As a response to the anti-Semitic threat of violence Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon issued the following statement, “[w]e are aware that anti-Semitic, racially motivated violent extremist, and white supremacist groups are planning a so-called “National Day of Hate” tomorrow to coincide with Shabbos. I am in communication with the NYPD and COJO and can report that there will be increased patrols around synagogues, high traffic areas, and other religious centers tomorrow. First and foremost, we will do everything we can to keep everyone safe.
But these hateful, despicable, and ignorant groups, their members, and all that they stand for is why the Staten Island Hate Crimes Task Force exists and we must and will continue our work to drive out hate through arresting and convicting these goons if crimes are committed, and through education and public condemnation of this type of vile behavior whenever it rears its head.
We are and always will be on the side of Americans who rightfully believe that everyone across our country deserves to live free from discrimination and targeted attacks based on who they are.”
Scott Maurer, CEO and Executive Vice-President of COJO stated, “As chairman of the Hate Crimes Task Force, I applaud the efforts taken by District Attorney McMahon warning potential wrong doers that they will be held accountable if they engage in anti-Semitic hate crimes. The only way to effectively combat hate is by admonishing that there will be consequences and no forgiveness if you commit a hate crime. Because a crime against one is a crime against us all.”
Mendy Mirocznik, president of COJO explained, “the days leading up to Shabbos were extremely tense and stressful. The phone lines at COJO and our email was inundated with people rightfully calling nonstop with questions and major concerns. However, in Staten Island we are fortunate to have District Attorney Michael McMahon who together with the NYPD takes all measures to ease community concerns. They advise the community that hate against the Jewish community will not be tolerated and that hate against the Jewish community is tantamount in having hate against all communities.
I must say that I met with all four precinct commanders including the newly appointed commander of Pct. 120, Inspector Stephen Sparto, as well as Captain Eric Waldhelm, Pct. 121; Inspector Timothy Wilson, Pct. 122 and Inspector Andrey Smirnov, Pct. 123, as well as with Chief Terrence Hurson, Executive Officer, Patrol Borough Staten Island, Lt. Rafet Awad, Commanding Officer, Community Affairs, Patrol Borough Staten Island and Sgt. Dennis Wu, Commanding Officer, Neighborhood Coordinating Officers, Patrol Borough Staten Island. These great officers figured out a plan of action and implemented it.
As a community, I can say we in Staten Island are fortunate to have dedicated police officers who are the best the department has to offer. Immediately the NYPD prepared and developed a plan of action which gave the public the confidence that we as a community are in good hands. Thanks to the commitment of the NYPD, we were able to enjoy Shabbos feeling easier and calmer. I pray that Hashem Yisborach has Rachmonus and there shall be no need to ever experience such a frightening situation again. I conclude by saying, please when you see a police officer stop and thank them for their service. The people in uniform care and we should always stop to thank them and acknowledge that we value, respect and appreciate their commitment to public safety.”
