Nassau Increasing Police Patrols As High Holy Days Approach

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — With the Jewish High Holy Days quickly approaching, Nassau County announced that it would be increasing police patrols at houses of worship, and also created a 24-hour hotline for any concerns worshipers may have.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, begins at sundown on Sept. 6 and lasts through Sept. 8. During those days, many faithful will be visiting their synagogues for services. Nassau County Executive Laura Curran assured Jewish residents that they will be able to worship in peace and safety.

"We have zero tolerance for antisemitism in Nassau County," she said. "And ahead of the High Holy Days, I want to make that absolutely clear.

Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said officers have been meeting with rabbis from synagogues around the county, as well as other religious leaders, to let them know they will get the help they need to worship safely. Ryder also said that police have already stepped-up patrols around schools and houses of worship.

Thanks to a $150,000 grant secured by state Sen. Todd Kaminsky, the police department will also be deploying new license plate readers in Cedarhurst, Woodmere, Hewlett and Lawrence during the holiday.

Curran and Ryder both encouraged residents who see something suspicious to call 911 and report it.

"Call in anything you think is a concern," Ryder said. "Let us, the experts, do what we do so we can run it down for you."

In addition to 911, the police created a special number for anyone with concerns surrounding a house of worship. Residents can call (516) 573-7720 at any time starting Sept. 5. The hotline will be open 24-hours a day.