POLITICS

NY man who struck woman at synagogue insulted Jews, 'identified as Jewish,' feds say

PUBLISHED Aug 19, 2026, 4:40 PM ET

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Federal prosecutors have filed hate crime charges against a Bronx man who allegedly assaulted worshippers at a Manhattan synagogue during a Shabbat service. Larry Montes, 46, was charged Tuesday with two hate crime counts and one count of destruction of religious property resulting in bodily injury, according to a Justice Department announcement . The attack occurred Aug. 14 at Central Synagogue, attended by approximately 375 people . Officials say Montes disrupted the service, knocked over ceremonial candlesticks, punched a 63-year-old congregant, and assaulted a Black security guard with a racial slur, a headbutt, and spit . He faces up to 20 years in prison on the top charge . The suspect, who allegedly said, "Fuck the Jews" and that his actions were racially and religiously motivated, also told investigators he "identified as Jewish" . His aunt said he had a "desire to belong to that religion" and was "mentally traumatized" . The attack, partly captured on livestream, sparked condemnation from Jewish leaders and New York officials .

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On Aug 14, 2026, around 6:10 PM, Montes disrupted Central Synagogue's Friday Shabbat service.
On Aug 14, 2026, Montes punched a 63-year-old congregant and assaulted a security guard.
On Aug 14, 2026, NYPD arrested Montes after the attack at Central Synagogue.
On Aug 15, 2026, Montes was arraigned in Manhattan Criminal Court on state charges.
On Aug 17, 2026, the DOJ announced federal hate crime charges against Larry Montes.
On Aug 18, 2026, federal complaint detailed Montes's statements and assault in full.
Present Events
On Aug 19, 2026, Montes remains in custody awaiting federal court proceedings .
Future Scenarios
Montes will be transported to face federal charges in Manhattan court .
The suspect faces a maximum 20-year prison sentence if convicted .
A judge will determine sentencing if Montes is convicted on charges.
Jewish advocacy groups will likely urge enhanced security measures for synagogues

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Attack reinforces fears among Jewish communities nationwide about worship safety.
Long-term US impact: Federal hate crime prosecution signals increased DOJ commitment to religious violence cases.
Affected groups: Jewish congregations, synagogue security personnel, and New York City communities.
Reader priority: Verify official DOJ and FBI statements over social media speculation.