A Bronx man accused of disrupting a Shabbat service at a Midtown Manhattan synagogue allegedly admitted during a recorded interview that his actions were racially and religiously motivated, federal prosecutors say. Larry Montes, 46, is charged with two federal hate crimes and destruction of religious property resulting in bodily injury. Authorities say he struck a congregant, assaulted a security guard and damaged ceremonial objects during the service. He remains in custody and could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted on the federal charges.
The incident occurred at Central Synagogue in Manhattan during a service attended by about 375 people. Prosecutors say Montes shouted antisemitic and derogatory statements before physically attacking two people as security personnel attempted to remove and restrain him. He also faces separate state charges connected with the incident.
New York City officials said the two injured people were doing well after the confrontation. The case has drawn attention to the safety of Jewish worshippers and the legal consequences of violence allegedly driven by religious or racial animus.
| 1) | Recorded interview and alleged motive |
| 2) | Disruption during the Shabbat service |
| 3) | Assaults on a congregant and security guard |
| 4) | Federal and state criminal charges |
| 5) | Official response and synagogue safety |
Recorded interview and alleged motive
According to federal prosecutors, Montes discussed his motivation in a recorded post-arrest interview with investigators. They say he described the conduct as “all a racial thing” and “all religious motivated,” and allegedly made additional antisemitic comments about Jews and synagogues. The statements are part of the government’s account of the evidence and will be considered in the criminal proceedings.
“It’s racial,” Montes allegedly said during the interview, according to prosecutors.
The alleged admissions are significant because the federal charges require prosecutors to establish that the conduct was motivated by protected religious or racial characteristics. Montes is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Disruption during the Shabbat service
The confrontation took place at Central Synagogue in Midtown Manhattan during a Jewish Sabbath service attended by approximately 375 people. Prosecutors say Montes stood up inside the sanctuary, began shouting obscenities at worshippers and damaged two ceremonial silver candlesticks with gold accents.
The alleged disruption occurred while congregants were gathered for religious observance. Authorities say the head of security then tried to remove Montes from the sanctuary, prompting further shouting and a physical struggle. The setting and timing form a central part of the allegations because the incident took place during a public religious service.
Assaults on a congregant and security guard
Prosecutors allege that Montes punched a female congregant with a closed fist during the disturbance. They also say he assaulted a security guard who was attempting to handcuff him, directed a racial slur at the guard, spat in his face and headbutted the area around the guard’s left eye.
Authorities further allege that Montes threatened to return to the synagogue at a later date. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the woman and the security guard were doing well after the incident, although the allegations describe a violent encounter that affected worshippers and security personnel inside the building.
Federal and state criminal charges
Montes faces two federal counts alleging hate crimes and a charge involving destruction of religious property resulting in bodily injury. The Justice Department says the federal case carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison if he is convicted. Separate state charges have also been filed in connection with the alleged attack.
Montes remains in custody as the cases proceed. The federal allegations are based on the reported conduct at the synagogue, the injuries and property damage described by authorities, and the statements prosecutors say he made after his arrest. The court process will determine the facts and any criminal responsibility.
Official response and synagogue safety
The incident prompted condemnation from city officials and renewed concern about whether Jewish New Yorkers can worship safely. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he could imagine the pain and fear caused by an attack during Shabbat services and stated that every New Yorker should be able to observe a religion without fear of violence.
The response has focused on the immediate welfare of those assaulted and the broader impact on the congregation. Security staff intervened during the service, while police and prosecutors pursued the criminal investigation. The case now moves forward through both federal and state court systems.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Montes is accused of attacking two people during a Shabbat service. |
| 2 | Prosecutors say a recorded interview showed racial and religious motivation. |
| 3 | The federal charges could result in up to 30 years in prison upon conviction. |
| 4 | State charges were also filed, and the two injured people were reported to be doing well. |
Summary
The allegations against Larry Montes combine violence at a religious service, damage to synagogue property and statements prosecutors say demonstrate antisemitic and religious motives. With federal and state cases pending, the court proceedings will determine whether the evidence supports the charges. The incident has also highlighted the continuing need for worshippers and security personnel to be protected during religious services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is charged in the case?
Larry Montes, 46, of the Bronx, is charged in federal court and also faces separate state charges related to the alleged synagogue incident.
What allegedly happened at the synagogue?
Prosecutors say Montes disrupted a Shabbat service, shouted obscenities, damaged ceremonial candlesticks, punched a congregant and assaulted a security guard.
What penalty could Montes face?
The Justice Department says the federal charges carry a potential maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison if Montes is convicted.
What evidence do prosecutors cite regarding motive?
Federal prosecutors cite statements they say Montes made during a recorded post-arrest interview, including alleged comments describing the conduct as racially and religiously motivated.
