Bronx Man Faces Federal Hate Crime Charges for Synagogue Disruption

A man from the Bronx, Larry Montes, 46, has been charged with federal hate crimes after a violent incident at a synagogue in Midtown Manhattan. According to federal prosecutors, Montes admitted in a recorded interview that his actions were motivated by racial and religious biases.

During the interview following his arrest, Montes allegedly expressed antisemitic sentiments. He reportedly said, “F— the Jews … It’s racial,” and made it clear that he would not associate with synagogues, either locally or in Israel.

“I will never affiliate with no filthy f—— synagogues, either here or in f—— Israel,” Montes reportedly declared.

The Justice Department has charged Montes with two counts of hate crimes and one count of destruction of religious property causing bodily harm. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison.

Reports indicate that Montes violently disrupted a Shabbat service at Central Synagogue in Manhattan, which had 375 attendees. Prosecutors allege that he assaulted two individuals and verbally assaulted attendees with obscenities during the Jewish Sabbath service.

During the incident, Montes allegedly damaged ceremonial silver candlesticks with gold accents. As security personnel tried to remove him, he reportedly responded with profanity and violence. Montes is accused of punching a female congregant and attacking a security guard.

Authorities claim Montes used a racial slur against the security guard, who is Black, and then spat in his face and headbutted him. Authorities also report that Montes threatened to return to the synagogue in the future.

Additionally, Montes faces state charges related to these events. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reported that the woman and security guard involved in the assault are recovering well.

Following the incident, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his alarm at the violence. On his social media platform, X, he commented on the impact of such attacks during religious services.

“I can only imagine the pain and fear an attack like this, during Shabbat services, causes for the congregation and for Jewish New Yorkers across our city,” Mayor Mamdani stated. He emphasized the right of every New Yorker to practice their religion without the threat of violence.

Montes is currently in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.