West Orange, NJ – The Department of Justice filed a civil lawsuit Monday alleging protesters used threats and violence against congregants at Congregation Ohr Torah during a November protest that disrupted a memorial service.
The complaint, lodged in the District of New Jersey, says defendants intended to interfere with the synagogue community’s right to worship under the FACE Act.
Key Points
- Lawsuit alleges threats, intimidation and violence at a West Orange synagogue protest.
- DoJ seeks an injunction blocking future FACE Act violations statewide.
- Officials say allegations are civil; defendants are presumed not liable unless proven.
Civil suit targets alleged threats and intimidation
Attorney General Pamela Bondi said, “No American should be harassed, targeted, or discriminated against for peacefully practicing their religion,” underscoring the filing in a statement Monday.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon added that the Civil Rights Division will “vigorously enforce” the right to worship without fear.
Injunction sought to protect worshipers
The suit seeks court-ordered relief preventing the defendants from using force, threats of force, or obstruction at synagogues across New Jersey.
The FACE Act, enacted in 1994, prohibits conduct that intentionally injures, intimidates, or interferes with people seeking or providing services or worship at houses of faith.
DoJ said the case is being handled by the Civil Rights Division and remains a civil action at this stage.
A federal judge will now decide whether the protest crossed the legal line from speech to intimidation.
