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Increased patrols at houses of worship and infrastructure sites as officials respond to heightened threat environment following international conflict
6-24-2025 2:29pm
Morris and Essex Law Enforcement Urge Vigilance Amid Global Tensions
MORRIS COUNTY, NJ - In response to recent global tensions involving reported military action against Iran and subsequent threats of retaliation, law enforcement agencies in Morris and Essex counties have issued a joint advisory urging residents to remain alert and vigilant.
Prosecutor Carroll issued this statement, “Today, we reiterate that members of Morris County law enforcement are absolutely committed to combatting antisemitism and any other forms of religious discrimination that violates our criminal laws. We want to reassure this community that we are proactively working with local religious leaders to provide individual facility security hardening and confirming the necessary lines of communication to assure quick response to any situation potentially involving criminal misconduct. Working with our neighboring counties, we will continue our efforts to assure the safety of all persons wishing to live in peace to practice their religion in Morris County.”
The advisory, released by Prosecutors Robert J. Carroll (Morris) and Theodore N. Stephens II (Essex), along with local sheriffs, chiefs of detectives, and the president of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association, underscores heightened security measures across both counties. Authorities have increased patrols around houses of worship—particularly those serving Jewish and Muslim communities—as well as critical infrastructure facilities.
Prosecutor Stephens said, “In light of recent international events, I urge all Essex County residents to exercise heightened awareness. While there is no specific threat to our area at this time, we are especially concerned about keeping our synagogues, mosques, and churches safe. We remain in close communication with our federal, state, and local partners to monitor developments and ensure public safety. We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. As always, the safety of our communities remains our top priority.”
The coordinated message follows a “heightened threat environment” alert issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This national advisory warns of the potential for cyberattacks and hate crimes, particularly those targeting Jewish institutions or entities associated with the U.S. government, in response to ongoing international developments.
Sheriff Gannon said, “Law enforcement is our first line of defense in preventing an attack or violent incident, and vigilance by members of the public is critical at this time.”
Sheriff Jones said, “In moments like these, unity and vigilance are our strongest tools. The Essex County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with our regional partners to ensure the safety of all communities—especially our neighbors of faith who may feel vulnerable during this time. We stand firmly against all forms of hate and remain committed to safeguarding every resident’s right to live, worship, and thrive in peace.”
Law enforcement officials emphasize that while there are no specific threats to the local area at this time, public cooperation and vigilance remain essential. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to their local police departments.
Thomas “Chip” Michaels, Chief Security Officer of Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, said, “Given these tenuous times, the safety of our community remains our highest priority, which is greatly strengthened through the support and collaboration of law enforcement agencies and government officials.”
The joint statement reflects a regional law enforcement effort to maintain public safety and reassurance amid global unrest, while ensuring that at-risk communities receive focused protective attention.
