Police in Rockland County to increase patrols at houses of worship ahead of major holidays
Departments step up security; no credible threats reported
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With major religious holidays happening this week, law enforcement agencies across Rockland County are increasing patrols at houses of worship to keep their communities safe.
At Congregation Shir Shalom at 411 S Little Tor Road in New City, Clarkstown police stopped by as the synagogue prepared for Passover. Rabbi Paul Kurland said the department’s presence is something congregants notice and appreciate.
"When I drove up today, there were a few police cars sitting in the parking lot, which they do all of the time, just to tell people, 'We are a presence,'" he said.
Rabbi Kurland added that the synagogue also has armed security, which he considers another important layer of protection.
"Especially on the holidays. Especially on the sabbath as well, that offers a great deal of comfort," he said.
Police departments throughout Rockland County plan to increase patrols during the holidays, including the Ramapo Police Department.
"Our main goal in doing this is to make sure that we can reassure all the residents that they can have a happy and safe holiday in the town," said Officer Billy O’Connor.
Ramapo police said they have met with community leaders and are aware of areas that may see larger crowds and heavier traffic. The department also shared with News 12 that there are currently no credible threats.
Chief Daniel Hyman had a message for the public and any potential bad guys.
"We are ready to respond to any kind of adversity that comes against our community. Our officers are well prepared. They're well-trained. And they know how to use our equipment effectively," he said.
The Stony Point Police Department says officers will be conducting extra directed patrols at all seven houses of worship in their area during this Holy Week, adding that "directed patrols will be done on all tours."
Mitch Silber, CEO of the Community Security Initiative (CSI), works closely with Rockland County law enforcement. CSI's goal as a program is to protect and enhance security for Jewish communities and institutions in the New York City metropolitan area, according to its website.
"The chiefs there are very much on top of these issues," he said.
Silber noted that CSI has provided grant funding to many synagogues in the metro New York area to support armed guards during the coming weeks. He pointed to a recent incident as an example of why these measures matter.
"In Michigan, the attack against a synagogue in West Bloomfield, it was the armed guards who made the difference between saving lives and a tragedy," he said.
