An attempted case of arson against a synagogue in Essex County on Sunday, January 29, and an attack on members of a church in Monmouth County on Saturday, January 28, are both under investigation as bias-motivated crimes.
Below, New Jersey Attorney General Platkin provides a statement on this past weekends crimes.
JANUARY 29, 2023 - “The Office of the Attorney General is aware of the attempted arson at a synagogue in Essex County that occurred in the early morning hours today. My office is working closely with local, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies, to identify and apprehend the suspect in this attack. Our investigation remains ongoing.
We are also aware of the attack on members of a church in Monmouth County that occurred on Saturday – another incident being pursued as potentially bias-motivated. Collaboration across multiple agencies is occurring in that ongoing investigation as well.
We are cognizant of the fact that these attacks have occurred while violence continues to erupt in Israel, and while our own nation reckons with violence at home. I want to reassure all New Jerseyans – especially our friends and neighbors of the Black community and the Jewish faith – that law enforcement continues to take the appropriate steps to increase our presence around sensitive places so that everyone in our state can worship, love, and live without fear of violence or threat.”
More updates will be provided as they are available.
Nicholas Malindretos, age 26 and from Clifton, New Jersey, has been charged with trying to set fire to a building used for interstate business. He is due in federal court in Newark today, February 2nd, 2023 for his initial hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Edward S. Kiel.
Moderate rain, with a high of 37 and low of 35 degrees. Don't forget your umbrella! Overcast for the morning,
37° and Overcast
