FBI Identifies Suspect Connected to NJ Synagogues Threat, Shuls Should Remain Vigilant

By Yehudit Garmaise

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the man connected to the widespread, but vague threats against New Jersey synagogues yesterday that prompted warnings to shuls in the tri-state area to bolster their security precautions.

Multiple law enforcement who interviewed the suspect described him as an autistic man who had been bullied in the past, nbcnewyork reported.

The suspect allegedly told law enforcement officials that he felt anger toward Jewish people, but that he would not hurt them because “he wouldn't want to get into trouble.”

The FBI did not provide any update on whether the suspect would be charged, but FBI’s Newark branch said it would provide additional information later today.

"We ask at this time that you take all security precautions to protect your community and facility," FBI Newark tweeted yesterday. "We shall share more information as soon as we can. Stay alert. In case of emergency call police."

The Ramapo Police department said yesterday that it was aware of the New Jersey threat and was in communication with law enforcement partners.