New Jersey man arrested for credible threat against synagogues

Charlie Dwyer

DEAL, NJ – The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued an imminent warning to synagogues in the New York and New Jersey area on Friday warning of a possible credible threat. Hours later, that threat was rescinded and the FBI said a suspect was identified and taken into custody.

The FBI announced that a New Jersey man was taken into custody and that he was a lone actor in the threat.

According to officials, the man holds “radical extremist views”.

“He no longer poses a threat to the community at this time,” James E. Dennehy during a call with regional leaders.


Although the FBI says they have their man, they are investigating leads regarding other individuals he was recently in contact with.


“He expressed radical, extremist views and ideology, as well as an extreme amount of hate against the Jewish community,” Dennehy said during hours of questioning with the subject.

“I am grateful to the FBI, as well as state law enforcement partners including the Attorney General’s Office, the State Police, and the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, for their tireless efforts in mitigating the immediate threat to our Jewish synagogues,” New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said. “While this specific threat may be mitigated, we know this remains a tense time for our Jewish communities who are facing a wave of anti-Semitic activity. We will not be indifferent. We will remain vigilant. We will take any and every threat with the utmost seriousness and we will stand up and stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish congregations.”

The suspect was not identified by the FBI.

“This threat violated one of the most fundamental tenets of our nation – the right to worship according to the dictates of our consciences and our sacred and holy traditions. We will always endeavor to ensure that every New Jerseyan of every faith may continue to live, study, and worship without fear for their safety,” the governor added.

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