Full Notification

November 4, 2022
 
MESSAGE TO THE TEANECK COMMUNITY
 
This morning, I participated in a security briefing related to intelligence information disseminated by the FBI yesterday afternoon with regards to a credible threat made against Jewish Synagogues.
 
Participating in the briefing this morning was Governor Phil Murphy, FBI Newark Director Jim Denehy , State Attorney General Matthew Platkin, and NJ State Police Superintendent Parick Callahan.
 
When Teaneck officials first learned of this threat yesterday afternoon, we took immediate action by increasing patrols and assigning staff to local houses of worship and schools. The use of decoy cars were deployed, and a community meeting was quickly assembled with our religious leaders and elected officials last night.
 
Please be assured that the Township continues to work closely with our law enforcement counterparts on the Federal, State and County levels.
 
These types of threats violate one of our most fundamental tenets of our nation, the right to worship. You have my commitment that the Township of Teaneck will take every step possible to ensure that our Jewish community, as well as all faiths, may continue to live, work, worship and study without fear for your safety.
 
As tonight is the Sabbath, we do not want anyone to feel afraid to go to Synagogue. A heightened security presence will remain around our synagogues and other related organizations so everyone can pray in safety, security and peace.
 
Today’s intelligence briefing yielded information that was positive. Yesterday, the FBI Newark field office was in receipt of a lead which detailed an unidentified New Jersey based individual who intended to attack an unspecified Jewish synagogue. That information was immediately relayed to community partners and law enforcement which prompted the increased security around Synagogues and schools.
 
Since receiving the lead, the FBI identified the subject and interviewed him late yesterday. He expressed radical extremist views and ideology, as well as an extreme amount of hate towards the Jewish community. The FBI has a high level of confidence that this individual is in fact the person who posed this threat. He no longer poses a threat to the community at this time, and there’s no indication of any outstanding threat affiliated with him or this investigation.
 
It does not appear there are others who pose a threat to synagogues affiliated with this subject of interest. The FBI Joint Terrorism Task remains the lead on this investigation. As the investigation continues, my office will provide updates to the Teaneck community.
 
Remember, remain alert and vigilant and to take all security precautions to help protect our community. If you see something, say something by reporting it to 911 for emergencies, and 201-837-2600 for non-emergencies.
The Teaneck Police Department will continue with extra staffing to keep everyone safe and secure.
 
Shabbat Shalom!
 
 
Sincerely,
 
Dean Kazinci
Township Manager