By COLlive reporter
In response to the tragic attack at a Jewish institution in Washington, D.C., in which two people were killed outside an event for Israeli diplomats and young Jewish professionals, the NYPD held a virtual security briefing on Thursday for Jewish community leaders across New York City.
Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism Rebecca Weiner said that while the incident appears to be the act of a lone individual and there is currently no specific threat to New York City, the NYPD is taking proactive steps out of an abundance of caution.
She noted that increased police presence would be visible at synagogues, cultural institutions, and diplomatic sites throughout the city. “This is not because we expect an incident—but because visibility deters bad actors and reassures the public,” she said.
The NYPD continues to monitor online platforms and communications, both public and private, for signs of potential copycat behavior or incitement. Weiner emphasized the importance of community members reporting anything suspicious, saying, “If you see something, say something.”
Deputy Chief Richie Taylor from the Community Affairs Bureau commended Commissioner Weiner and her team for their professionalism and tireless dedication. He reassured community leaders that the NYPD is working around the clock to ensure both safety and peace of mind.
Deputy Commissioner Mark Stewart added that Community Affairs Officers will be deployed across the city this weekend, with increased focus on houses of worship ahead of Shabbos and upcoming holidays.
“We’ve been through difficult moments before,” Stewart said. “But we’ll get through this together. We’re committed to being with you—on the ground and at your side.”
Devorah Halberstam, NYPD Honorary Commissioner of Community Affairs, issued a direct call for immediate action: “Crown Heights is a sensitive area—we shouldn’t have to make phone calls to get a response. We need it automatically and without delay,” she said.
“This isn’t a criticism—it’s a call to action,” Halberstam said. “Someone needs to take the lead and ensure that the necessary steps are being taken, quickly and decisively. We can’t afford to wait when safety is on the line.”
Josh Mehlman, Chairman of the Flatbush Community Coalition, thanked NYPD leadership and the Mayor’s Office for their rapid response. Representing over 250 yeshivas and shuls in the area, Mehlman said the increased patrols and intelligence efforts were welcomed and appreciated.
However, he voiced concern over the “lone wolf” nature of the D.C. attack, which occurred without warning signs. “People are asking, ‘What can we do when there are no alerts?’ Patrols help, but they can’t be everywhere.”
In response, Commissioner Weiner acknowledged that lone actor threats are among the most difficult to predict but said that strong community-police relationships and grassroots vigilance remain key to early detection. She pointed to a foiled synagogue plot last year as an example of successful collaboration between NYPD, federal partners, and international agencies.
Mehlman also referenced community concerns after seeing footage of the D.C. suspect pacing outside the location before the attack. “If an officer had been present, perhaps it could have been prevented,” he said. “We understand the limits—but we thank you for showing up.”
Rabbi Yehiel Kalish, CEO of Chevra Hatzalah, reaffirmed Hatzalah’s strong working relationship with NYPD and the Mayor’s Office. “You can count on us, just as we count on you,” he said. “As we approach Shabbat, coordination and readiness are crucial.”
Mitch Silber of the Community Security Initiative highlighted the recent Celebrate Israel Parade as a success in coordination and security. He urged event organizers to report all upcoming community gatherings to ensure proper police coverage. “If NYPD doesn’t know about it, they can’t be there,” he said.
Menashe Shapiro, Senior Adviser to Mayor Adams, said the Mayor’s Office was in close contact with NYPD leadership throughout the night of the D.C. attack. “Calls from synagogues started coming in, and I already knew there would be extra patrols on the ground,” he said. “That kind of coordination matters. It makes a difference.”
He added that Mayor Adams was briefed at midnight and again at 7:00 a.m., and has been personally involved in the response. “He’s been hands-on every step of the way,” he said.
The NYPD and Mayor’s Office are encouraging Jewish organizations to continue sharing event details, concerns, or suspicious activity through official channels.
770 need 24/7 high level security at all entry points.