The Mayor Speaks As NYC Ramps Up Security For Jewish High Holidays And The Anniversary (Video)

New York City is heightening security measures for the Jewish High Holidays and the upcoming anniversary of the October 7th, 2024, Hamas attack on Israel.

Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD officials held a briefing to outline the enhanced security plans, emphasizing the city’s commitment to protecting its residents during this sensitive time.

Increased Police Presence

The NYPD is deploying additional resources to ensure the safety of Jewish communities and potential targets across the city 12. 

These measures include:

• Extra patrols near synagogues
• Heavy weapons teams and K-9 units
• Increased presence of uniformed officers in marked vehicles
• Deployment of Hercules teams from the NYPD Emergency Service Unit

Deputy Police Commissioner Rebecca Weiner stated that while no credible threats have been identified, the anniversary of the October 7th attack and recent events in the Middle East have heightened the threat environment 1.

Enhanced Surveillance and Monitoring

To bolster security efforts, the NYPD is implementing advanced surveillance techniques:

• Cameras trained on an additional 50 sensitive locations
• Increased aerial patrols by aviation units
• Daily sweeps of sensitive locations by canine teams1

Collaborative Efforts

The security measures extend beyond the NYPD, with state and local authorities working together:

• Governor Kathy Hochul has directed State Police to increase patrols at risk areas, including synagogues, yeshivas, and community centers1.
• State and city officials have conducted joint intelligence briefings to ensure coordinated efforts1.
• College campuses have been contacted to review and approve safety and security plans1.

Addressing Potential Protests

Mayor Adams acknowledged the possibility of “significant protests” planned for October 7th2. He emphasized:

• The city respects and protects the right to peaceful protest.
• There will be “zero tolerance” for law violations, including impeding traffic or damaging property12.

Community Reassurance

Both Mayor Adams and NYPD officials sought to reassure New Yorkers:

• “We got this,” Adams stated. “This city is under watch.”1
• Interim Police Commissioner Tom Donlon highlighted that the security plan has been in development for over a year, with direct input from the Jewish community2.

As the High Holidays begin and the October 7th anniversary approaches, New York City authorities are demonstrating a proactive and comprehensive approach to ensuring the safety of all residents, particularly those in the Jewish community.