Worcester Police Up Patrols Near Religious Sites Amid Israel War

WORCESTER, MA — Although Worcester hasn't received any specific threats, local police will patrol more often around religious institutions amid a rise in terroristic threats worldwide, the department says.

Worcester police alerted residents Thursday about an increase in patrols, which come days after a new conflict broke out between Hamas and the Israeli military forces, with civilians caught in the crossfire.

"In response to global online threats of terrorism, the Worcester Police Department is increasing patrols around places of worship and other institutions. We have NO evidence of any specific, local threats," the department said. "We are coordinating with community leaders, state and federal partners, and we ask the public to please contact us with any information about potential threats. There will be no tolerance for any form of threats or intimidation."

In Massachusetts, police are investigating after someone spray-painted "Nazi" on a sign outside a Palestinian cultural center in Boston. Police in Salem are also increasing patrols around that city's Halloween festivities due to the potential for terrorism.