Federal prosecutors have stated that a Bronx resident, charged with federal hate crimes following a violent incident at a Midtown Manhattan synagogue, explicitly confessed to investigators in a recorded interview that his actions were "all a racial thing" and "all religious motivated." Larry Montes, 46, of the Bronx, allegedly made numerous antisemitic and offensive comments during the post-arrest recording. These remarks reportedly included statements such as, "F--- the Jews ... It’s racial," and "I will never affiliate with no filthy f------synagogues, either here or in f------ Israel."
Montes faces two counts of committing hate crimes and one count of destruction of religious property that resulted in bodily injury. The Justice Department indicates that these charges could lead to a prison sentence of up to 30 years.
The Synagogue Incident
Prosecutors allege that Montes brazenly attacked two individuals and yelled obscenities at congregants during a Jewish Sabbath service at the Central Synagogue in Midtown, an event attended by 375 people. During the service, Montes reportedly rose, began shouting, and physically damaged two ceremonial silver candlesticks adorned with gold accents. When the head of security tried to escort him out of the sanctuary, Montes allegedly yelled, "F--- you people" and "I don’t f--- with you people."
Authorities further report that Montes then struck a female congregant with a closed fist and assaulted a security guard who was attempting to restrain him. He purportedly directed a racial slur at the Black security guard, then spit in his face and headbutted his left eye socket. Montes also allegedly issued threats to return to the synagogue at a later time.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
Beyond the federal charges, Montes is also facing state charges stemming from the incident. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch provided an update on the victims, stating that both the woman and the security guard who were assaulted are recovering well.
Following the assault, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani conveyed his shock regarding the violence. In a public statement, he remarked:
"I can only imagine the pain and fear an attack like this, during Shabbat services, causes for the congregation and for Jewish New Yorkers across our city. Every New Yorker must be able to observe their religion without fear of violence."
Montes currently remains in custody.
