In response to recent security threats, the Crown Heights Vaad Hakahol, in collaboration with the Local Shul Representatives, has launched the Crown Heights Office of Security and Emergency Network (CHOSEN).
“This critical initiative aims to enhance the security and emergency preparedness of our shuls and community. We will also be working with local community security organizations to bolster our overall safety measures,” said Rabbi Zalman Friedman of the CHJCC.
The timing of this program is crucial, as a recent terror plot targeting New York City synagogues was thwarted. Two men, who had already acquired weapons, were arrested while planning an attack on a major synagogue in the city. Their plan involved disguising themselves as Chassidic Jews to carry out the attack. The quick response of law enforcement prevented a potentially devastating incident, underscoring the need for vigilant security measures.
The new initiative will provide the following:
Real-Time Security Updates: Representatives from each shul will be part of a closed WhatsApp group, receiving real-time alerts and important information about potential threats, particularly ahead of Shabbos.
Community Preparedness: Weekly updates will detail security tasks for each Shabbos, whether it’s a normal Shabbos or one requiring heightened alert levels, ensuring that every shul is prepared based on reliable information.
Shul Communications: Shul representatives will be responsible for sharing critical information with their shul’s members, keeping everyone informed and aligned.
To begin this right away, the CHJCC is requesting that each shul to appoint 2-4 security representatives and submit their names by next Thursday, 16 Elul (September 19th) to get this important initiative underway. This is a community-coordinated effort, and those who wish to take on the important role of a security representative for their shul should reach out to their Netzig. “This is your opportunity to directly contribute to the safety of your shul and the broader community,” they said.
“As we prepare for the upcoming Tishrei holidays, when our community gathers in large numbers, CHOSEN is a crucial step toward safeguarding our shuls and families. The program ensures that, in the event of a security threat, our community is unified and able to respond efficiently and effectively,” said Friedman.
For further information on the CHOSEN program or to get your shul involved, please contact [email protected] or WhatsApp 718-771-9000.
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How about street security
Isnt that the above?
Seems useless. The threat was aimed at 770, which would likely be targeted in the future. Secure 770 first.
We can do both at the same time. Clearly with the threat directed there; this is a priority
This is written as of there is no current security organizations operating in crown heights and keeping us safe for years?! Shmira shomrim?!
Somehow seems nowhere near adequate to the current scenario/situation anyway sorry.
No offense intended, but…
In addition. The prison sentences should be much more harsh.
Tell your elected officials to rescind Bail Reform
Less pictures and more action please.
This pictures benefit the real estate moguls of Crown Heights and not our community
A novel concept.
CCW and training for people? Police are tens of minutes away when seconds count.
a lot of words spoken and pictures taken. All these are already being implemented in many shuls which are not the prime target. What is being done to harden 770?? That’s what matters. I hope things are being done that is not being publicized and for good reason. Just do do do
Thank you community council for showing up! Chazak chazak!!
What about a single mother family, (“off the community radar”,) that davens at a shul but isn’t known to the male shul members in charge. How would these families receive the warning, rachmana litzlan, from the shul?