Amid heightened concerns over security and rising antisemitism, leaders from Queens’ Jewish communities gathered at One Police Plaza on Wednesday, April 2, for the NYPD’s Annual Pre-Passover Security Briefing. The event demonstrated the city’s strong commitment to safeguarding Jewish residents during the upcoming Yom Tov of Pesach.

This year’s program took place in a more informal and inviting setting, with attendees seated at tables rather than traditional rows; over 400 members of law enforcement and community representatives gathered. The event opened with a stirring NYPD Heroes video narrated by the legendary James Earl Jones of blessed memory, highlighting the department’s nearly two centuries of dedicated service. This transitioned into the presentation of the colors and a moving rendition of the national anthem by world-renowned tenor chazzan Nissim Saal.

Mayor Eric Adams delivered a spirited address, underscoring the partnership between the NYPD and the Jewish community. He reflected powerfully on the impact of the October 7 massacre, describing it as “probably a second Holocaust that impacted the Jewish community.” The mayor emphasized that this moment demanded not just capable leadership, but leaders who deeply understood the significance of standing with the Jewish people. “We could have easily looked over the entire bench of those who have the qualities of law enforcement. But we needed to send not only something that was substantive, but symbolic,” he explained. He pledged ongoing police support and urged, “See something, say something, do something,” calling on the community to be active partners in their own protection.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch followed with heartfelt remarks, offering condolences for the tragic Shabbos car crash in Flatbush that took the lives of Sarah (Natasha) Saada, 35, and her two daughters, Dinah Brachah (Diana), age 7, and Devorah Mazal (Debra), age 5, who were walking along Ocean Parkway. A heartfelt t’filah is extended for the refuah sh’leimah of Pinchas Refoel (Phillip) ben Sarah, 4, the surviving son who remains hospitalized.

Commissioner Tisch then turned to security concerns, revealing that 62% of all hate crimes in New York City now target Jews—an increase from 54% the previous year. “No community should feel like a target,” she asserted, detailing increased NYPD patrols and intelligence efforts to ensure the safety of shuls and Jewish institutions throughout the holiday. Commissioner Tisch noted her personal connection to the community, sharing that she was sworn in while wearing her Magen David and affirmed her deep commitment to protecting the Jewish community. “We will not tolerate criminal behavior or intimidation,” she said firmly.

Rabbi Dr. Alvin Kass, NYPD’s Chief Chaplain, spoke with deep emotion about the eternal relevance of Pesach. He likened our collective journey from Mitzrayim to today’s struggle against hatred and fear, invoking the imagery of spiritual and physical deliverance. With his signature blend of wit and wisdom, he quipped, “Jews were freed to become law enforcement officers,” bringing a smile to many.

John Gordon, Deputy Director of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, delivered a thorough and data-driven assessment of the global and domestic threat landscape, particularly in light of the October 7 attacks. He highlighted the reality that Jewish communities remain high-value targets for a wide range of malicious actors, from foreign terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and al-Qaeda, to racially- and ethnically-motivated violent extremists inspired by neo-Nazi and white supremacist ideologies. Gordon noted that in the 23 years since 9/11, at least 12 of the 67 publicly known plots or attacks against New York City had a direct connection to Jewish institutions or individuals.

He emphasized that the Passover season is viewed by many extremist entities as a high-profile window for violence, due to the holiday’s religious symbolism and communal gatherings. Gordon outlined the NYPD’s multi-pronged response, including collaboration with over 15 international liaison officers and enhanced surveillance of online platforms where antisemitic rhetoric and potential threats often surface. His message was clear: preparedness, not panic, is the path forward. He praised the Jewish community’s proactive engagement, noting that a recent serious threat against a major Manhattan shul was disrupted due to a tip from a community security partner. Timely reporting and partnership, he stressed, remain the most effective tools to safeguard our neighborhoods.

Deputy Inspector Gary Marcus of the Hate Crime Task Force delivered a concerning update on the surge in antisemitic crimes across the city, noting that anti-Jewish incidents now comprise 62% of all hate crimes. “They jump off the page,” he remarked with emphasis. He detailed the tireless work of his team, which includes highly trained detectives who are laser-focused on identifying and prosecuting hate-based offenses. Marcus encouraged the community not only to remain vigilant but to report any suspicious or hateful incidents, no matter how minor they may seem. He emphasized that the NYPD can only act on what is known, and the partnership between law enforcement and the community is the cornerstone of a safe and secure future for all New Yorkers.

The NYPD’s organizational partners—Misaskim/Yedid, Chevra Hatzalah, and the Combat Antisemitism Movement—are acknowledged with gratitude for their vital roles in communal safety.

Extended thanks are due to Police Officer Kevin McCarthy of the Community Affairs Section – 107th Precinct for extending the invitation to this event. Appreciation is also due to the dedicated Community Affairs officers of the 102nd, 107th, 112th Precincts and beyond, who consistently work with devotion for the benefit of our Jewish communities throughout the year.

The briefing was graced by the presence of leaders from the Queens Jewish community, including Rabbi Daniel Pollack, clergy liaison to Kew Gardens’ 102nd precinct; Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, clergy liaison to Kew Gardens Hills’ 107th precinct; and longtime community advisor Alan Sherman, along with Touro University alum Zach Feldman. Representing Queens Shmira were me and Avraham Pinkhasov, and Levi Leifer, Founder and Director.

Also in attendance were members of the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol (RNSP), serving Far Rockaway and Nassau County.

Those of us from Queens took a moment to introduce ourselves to Captain Daniel Fennessy, the new Commanding Officer of the 112th Precinct in Forest Hills, who expressed his dedication to forging strong ties with local communities. His predecessor Captain David Cordano, now at the 115 was delighted to reminisce and made the formal transitional introduction. Captain Mo C. Tsang, Commanding Officer of the 107th Precinct, was also acknowledged for his steadfast support and continued commitment.

I had the distinct honor of sitting beside Rabbi Leonard (Yehuda) Blank, Director of the Chaplaincy Commission and External Affairs at the Rabbinical Alliance of America. Rabbi Blank, who formerly served as a uniformed police chaplain for the NYC Housing Police, has played a vital role in fostering meaningful relationships between the Jewish community and the NYPD. His presence at the event underscored the deep-rooted collaboration and mutual respect shared between religious leaders and law enforcement. Special hakaras ha’tov is owed to Deputy Chief Richie Taylor, Commanding Officer of the Community Affairs Outreach Division.

By Shabsie Saphirstein