Toronto police officers to embed with Jewish security network during High Holidays

Toronto police will embed officers with the Jewish security network during the upcoming High Holidays and through the third anniversary of the Oct. 7 attacks, Chief Myron Demkiw announced. This initiative responds to a recent surge in antisemitic violence, including synagogue shootings, within Toronto's Jewish communities. Demkiw stated, "We will have an increased presence, both visible and covert," and warned that "If you engage in criminal behavior, we will find you, we will arrest you, and we will lay charges against you." Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized that "everyone gathering for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur deserves to do so without worry," acknowledging the current need for enhanced security. Police have made 573 arrests since Oct. 7, 2023, and have added officers to the hate-crimes unit.