Long Island officials increase security ahead of Jewish High Holy Days
Police and synagogues across Nassau and Suffolk counties are taking extra precautions as Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approach.
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Long Island officials are increasing security measures ahead of the Jewish High Holy Days, which begin at sundown tomorrow.
As many people across the region prepare to celebrate and attend services, police in Nassau and Suffolk counties say they will be boosting patrols near houses of worship.
"We want to make sure and assure the people out there that we are out there. We're doing everything we can," says Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.
Rosh Hashanah begins Friday evening and Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Sept. 20.
According to Ryder, Nassau County police will be using additional technology as part of their security efforts.
"We've got drones that are now up and over all of us, synagogues that will be out there this weekend, starting Friday. We've already had them out in the past on the Sabbath. We have extra cameras that we've installed, a flock camera system," says Ryder.
Local synagogues are also taking extra security measures ahead of the holidays.
"Now it's something essential and that's unfortunate that we have to have that situation," said Eli Goodman, rabbi at Chabad of the Beaches.
Chabad of the Beaches is expecting hundreds of people to attend services both in the synagogue and on the beach during the High Holy Days.
"I haven't really found people afraid to come but people have requested that we make sure we have security not only here in the synagogue but also on the beach because we're open," says Goodman.
Synagogue leaders say they are grateful for the added security efforts from local officials.
"I'm happy that they're taking it up," Goodman said. "Unfortunately, in today's climate, over the last couple of years and maybe the last decade, that's when we've had the Homeland Security grants, we've upgraded our doors and our windows and now security is something real."
Police say their message to the public is straightforward.
"If you're concerned about something, call us. It's a simple 911," says Ryder.
The state is also providing a record $70 million in security funding to nearly 300 nonprofit organizations considered vulnerable to hate crimes and attacks. Officials say the funding can be used for security improvements and cybersecurity measures.
