Overview
- Prosecutors say 46-year-old Larry Montes rushed the bimah during Shabbat services, declared he was "Hashem," knocked over ceremonial candleholders and was arrested at the scene.
- Court filings allege Montes struck a 63-year-old congregant, spat on and headbutted a 65-year-old security guard, and caused more than $7,000 in damage to religious property.
- Manhattan prosecutors announced a state indictment on Sept. 9 charging Montes with multiple hate-crime counts, including criminal mischief and assault as hate crimes.
- Federal prosecutors filed hate-crime charges earlier and news reports say Montes is expected to be arraigned in federal court after the state proceeding.
- Officials have said Montes admitted the attack was motivated by bias, and local leaders and law enforcement have promised reinforced protection for congregations as the High Holidays approach.