Increased Police Patrol In West Windsor After Synagogue Threat

WEST WINDSOR, NJ – The West Windsor Police Department has increased patrols in the township in response to an FBI warning of a “broad threat” to synagogues in New Jersey, police chief Chief Robert Garofalo said.

"WWPD Officers and Explosive Detection K-9s Mackey and Phoenix will be on hand for the next several days to help reassure our Jewish Faith partners that we will always be at the ready and watching," Garofalo said in a message to the community.

The FBI issued the warning Thursday afternoon saying it had "received credible information of a broad threat to synagogues in NJ." "We ask at this time that you take all security precautions to protect your community and facility," the FBI said.

New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin said state agencies were coordinating with federal agencies and local law enforcement, and urged everyone to be watchful.

"Please do not be alarmed if you observe an increase in police presence as we are taking these steps in an abundance of caution," Platkin said. "We also call upon New Jersey residents to be extra vigilant and if you see suspicious activity please report it to your local authorities without delay."

Gov. Phil Murphy issued a statement following the FBI's warning, saying he is closely monitoring the situation.

Chief Garofalo has asked the community to call 911 if they see "anything that seems suspicious or out of the ordinary."

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