Please Be Aware
An individual named Clare Farris was arrested on February 19 for Harassment, Disorderly Conduct, Scattering Rubbish and Ethnic Intimidation as it relates to the February 8 antisemitic threats made against a family living in the Mexican War Streets area of Pittsburgh. We will provide updates as this case moves through the judicial system.
As we observe Purim, it is important to remain observant and report any suspicious activity to the Police and to your Federation Security Team.
Last evening, the Federation hosted a forum for Online Safety for Children and Teens. The presenters discussed the dangers of Nihilistic Criminal Groups and extortionists who target young people online such as the FBI news story linked below. It is important to monitor your child’s online activity and discuss the dangers of these groups. The Federation Safety Team will continue to update you on this issue. Please contact us if you have any questions on this topic.
So far in 2026 we have logged 38 incidents in our Virtual Command Center which is in comparison to 43 at this time last year. Please continue to report any suspicious incidents via the Incident Report Form.
Security Matters in the News This Week
- FBI Pittsburgh warns of growing threat of sextortion cases (newsbreak.com)
- I asked my Jewish readers if they’re Zionists. Here’s what they told me. (jewishchronicle.com)
- Truck ramming at Australian synagogue prompts hate crime charges as antisemitism commission opens (jewishchronicle.com)
BluePoint Status
BluePoint is now live in 34 of the 36 locations. Police boxes have been installed at 29 of our organizations, enabling law enforcement to have immediate access in an emergency.
Security Resources and/or Training
In the event of an emergency, please be aware that we have adopted the Standard Response Protocol to best communicate across communities and emergency response teams.
Request Training for Your Organization →
If you need Go Bags, Emergency Safety Procedures Flip Charts or medical supplies contact Erin Fagan at efagan@jfedpgh.org or 412-992-5252.
