New York to step up police presence at synagogues for High Holidays

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced increased state police patrols around synagogues and Jewish institutions for the High Holidays due to a rise in antisemitic hate crimes. State troopers will conduct high-visibility patrols and coordinate with local and federal law enforcement, as well as organizations like the Anti-Defamation League. The state is also distributing a record $70 million to 290 nonprofit organizations vulnerable to hate crimes through the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes program, with grants up to $250,000 for physical and cybersecurity enhancements. New York City organizations received the largest share of this funding. Governor Hochul stated, "As Jewish New Yorkers prepare for the High Holidays, we’re continuing our record investments to protect sensitive sites and surging state police resources to keep communities safe across our state." This initiative comes as hate crimes in New York City increased by 16% through August 30, with anti-Jewish hate crimes rising 8% and accounting for over half of confirmed hate crimes.