Man Faces Hate Crime Charges Over Violent Disruption at Manhattan Synagogue

A 46-year-old man has been taken into custody

A 46-year-old man has been taken into custody following a violent incident at Central Synagogue in Manhattan, where authorities allege he attacked two people during a Shabbat service that was being broadcast online.

The suspect, identified by police as Larry Montes, is now facing multiple charges, including two counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of criminal mischief as a hate crime, according to the New York Police Department.

The altercation unfolded on Friday evening when Montes allegedly disrupted the service and then struck a female congregant and a security guard who intervened, officials said. The entire episode was captured on the synagogue's live stream, which was active during the incident.

Police responded to the scene and arrested Montes

Police responded to the scene and arrested Montes without further incident. Additional charges against him include criminal trespass and disorderly conduct, though authorities have not released further details about the motive behind the attack.

The Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish community groups have condemned the incident, calling it a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitic violence. Central Synagogue, one of the oldest and most prominent reform congregations in the city, has not yet issued a public statement.

Montes is expected to appear in court for arraignment in the coming days. The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.