Security

Pittsburgh City Council is proposing a referendum that the City cannot discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, or association with foreign nations when it conducts business. This is in response to the proposed anti-Israel referendum led by a pro-Palestinian group that seeks to have the city stop doing business with companies tied to Israel.

We are closely monitoring the proposed three-phase Israeli-Hamas cease-fire hostage exchange deal, and its potential implications here in the US, regionally and locally.

Jack D. Molloy, indicted last week for lying to the FBI and supporting terrorism, had his arraignment in federal court this week. Molloy waived his detention hearing with the option of filing a motion for release at a later date. In the interim, Molloy remains detained. We will keep you posted on any changes.

We remain in a heightened threat environment, especially after DHS and FBI issued a Joint Intelligence Bulletin yesterday that cautions of the possibility of copycat ISIS-inspired attacks after the vehicle ramming attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. We continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement to monitor potential threat activity.

Federal law enforcement and intelligence partners assess that the Jewish community is currently facing an elevated threat landscape during this holiday season, specifically regarding the use of large public gatherings as soft targets, protest and boycott action plans and cyber threats. Please remain situationally aware and have a personal security plan in place. If you need guidance on that, please contact us.

Federal law enforcement and intelligence partners assess that the Jewish community is currently facing an elevated threat landscape during this holiday season, specifically regarding the use of large public gatherings as soft targets.

The FBI Pittsburgh Division has created a program to help emphasizing the importance of protecting children online called Online Safety Starts With You.

Last weekend we had numerous reports of targeted, antisemitic flyering and stickering in the Squirrel Hill, Bloomfield and North Shore areas in what appears to be a coordinated effort Saturday night into Sunday morning. We are actively working with law enforcement on this.

The federal hate crime arrests from the July 29th graffiti at the Jewish Federation and Chabad of Squirrel Hill underscores the importance of video surveillance cameras as an investigative tool and their use in identifying perpetrators and vehicles. Please continue to report any suspicious incidents via the Incident Report Form.

The two defendants in the hate crime conspiracy to deface Chabad of Squirrel Hill and Jewish Federation had their preliminary hearing on Wednesday. The judge ordered that they remain on ankle monitors.

Two individuals were arrested Wednesday morning by the FBI for federal hate crimes and criminal conspiracy relative to the targeted antisemitic graffiti at Chabad of Squirrel Hill and the Jewish Federation on July 29, 2024. Parts of the investigation are still ongoing.

The planned “Week of Rage” that called for anti-Israel protest activity is close to an end. We had several protests throughout the Oakland area and a few minor incidents of vandalism. We are not aware of any credible intelligence reporting indicating a threat to the region. However, remaining vigilant and situationally aware is essential.

Shana Tovah! Wishing you a happy, healthy, sweet New Year. Please be aware we are closely monitoring the attacks by Iran in Israel and potential ramifications.

Social media reports are showing that October 7–11 has been deemed a nationwide “Week of Rage—1 Year of Genocide For For Gaza We Rise” during which students across the country and the world will “rise together for a week of rage to mark a year of genocide in Gaza.” This could impact college and university law enforcement partners and security operations on or near college campuses.

On Friday, Sept. 13, a resident of Squirrel Hill was arrested after trying to enter the Carriage House under the influence of a controlled substance. Please know that this conduct is not at all related to the Jewish community, it is the criminal activity of an isolated individual who is now in custody.

The preliminary hearing for the defendant accused of attacking two Pitt Jewish students last Friday evening on their way to Shabbat services has been postponed due to an ongoing psychological evaluation.

The investigation is ongoing into the attack of two Jewish Pitt students last Friday evening. The defendant has been charged with aggravated assault, resisting arrest and recklessly endangering another person. Additionally, we are actively monitoring a planned nationwide day of action by the National Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), as announced on the National SJP X/Twitter account. The day of action is scheduled for September 12, 2024.

The FBI warned that Iran-based cyber actors continue to exploit US and foreign organizations, targeting sectors across the US to include education, finance, healthcare, local government agencies and defense. Outside of the US, affected countries include Israel, Azerbaijan, and UAE.