Man accused of attacking duo at New York synagogue charged with federal hate crimes

Larry Montes, already facing state charges, allegedly attacked a woman and security guard at New York City's Central Synagogue during Shabbat services on Friday. He allegedly struck a 63-year-old woman, spat at, and head-butted a security guard, causing injuries and damaging property, prosecutors said. Montes is charged federally with two counts of hate crimes and one count of damage to religious property resulting in bodily injury.

The woman suffered cuts on her lip and a forearm injury. Montes allegedly stood up during the service, shouted at security, and struck ceremonial silver candlesticks, causing them to fall. When security tried to remove him, Montes allegedly used racial slurs and said he felt disrespected during the service. He was arrested by a New York police department sergeant assigned to the synagogue shortly after the incident, which was visible on a livestream.

Manhattan federal prosecutors stated that Montes's attack was motivated by hate and a racial grievance. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch also commented on Montes's actions during the services.