Please Be Aware
As we prepare for the High Holidays, it is important to remain vigilant. We continue to see security incidents targeting Jewish communities across the country, underscoring the need for preparedness and awareness. This past weekend, a suspect entered Central Synagogue in Manhattan during services, shouting and behaving erratically. Thanks to the quick response of on-site security personnel, the individual was safely detained and escorted from the building. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong security measures and remaining alert. Read more at Suspect in NYC synagogue violent disturbance hit with federal hate crime charges (cbsnews.com).
Last week a swastika was drawn on the exterior of Temple Shalom in Wheeling, WV. Read more at Swastika painted on Temple Shalom prompts police investigation (heraldstaronline.com).
The City of Pittsburgh has begun using red-light cameras at two intersections throughout the city. Please review the information at Pittsburgh’s Red Light Cameras Go Live (axios.com) to learn more about this technology, how it is being used and how it may impact you during your next drive.
Secure Community Network (SCN) will be hosting Protecting Every Congregant: Emergency Preparedness In Practice., the fifth session of their High Holiday Webinar Series, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. The session starts at 2 PM. For more information and to register visit High Holidays Safety and Security Webinar Series (securecommunitynetwork.org). If you wish to receive SCN’s Daily Update emails you can subscribe at SCN® Daily Update.
So far in 2026 we have logged 178 incidents in our Virtual Command Center which is in comparison to 182 at this time last year. Please continue to report any suspicious incidents via the Incident Report Form.
Security Matters in the News This Week
- Suspect sought in vandalism of YO/OY statue outside National Museum of Jewish History (fox29.com)
- Cleveland synagogues enlist congregants to bolster security (axios.com)
- Jewish watchdog urges NYPD to increase officers in hot spots after synagogue attack (jta.org)
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