“Places of worship should be safe havens, not scenes of violence and hate,” said District Attorney Bragg. “As alleged, Larry Montes endangered congregants in the middle of services. He is charged with subsequently attacking two people in unprovoked, bias-motivated assaults and destroying religious property, all while spewing bigoted language. An attack on a house of worship threatens an entire community’s sense of safety and the sanctity of these community pillars must be protected. I commend the Jewish community for its resilience amid heightened antisemitism, and I wish the victims a full recovery. As the Jewish High Holidays approach, we will remain vigilant alongside the NYPD to protect our synagogues throughout Manhattan.”

“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and be treated with respect, without fear of harm simply for being who they are,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Theodore Tucker allegedly escalated hateful words into senseless gun violence, targeting an innocent stranger because of his sexual orientation. These allegations are deeply troubling, and my thoughts remain with the victim as he continues to recover from his significant injuries.”

“Raul Morales was allegedly motivated by antisemitism when he attacked two New Yorkers in broad daylight near two Upper West Side synagogues,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Since the initial arrest, my Office has continued to thoroughly investigate this matter and uncovered additional evidence alleging the defendant specifically harbors antisemitic views. This case is a prime example of how hate crimes make all of us less safe. I want to make clear to all Manhattanites that we will stand with and support you no matter your background, ethnicity or religion.”

“Hate crimes undermine the values of dignity, safety and inclusion that define our city,” said District Attorney Bragg. “As alleged, Kevin Maxwell violently attacked an innocent and vulnerable child – a stranger – while directing hateful language at him. Every child deserves to feel safe in our parks and other shared spaces, and we are dedicated to protecting New Yorkers by using every tool available to hold those who commit bias-motivated attacks accountable.”

“New Yorkers deserve to be safe using our transit system without fear of violence, discrimination or harassment,” said District Attorney Bragg. “As alleged, Tavaughn Thompson targeted a stranger because of their perceived sexual orientation in an unprovoked, bias-motivated attack. Our Hate Crimes Unit is committed to protecting the safety and dignity of Manhattanites by holding accountable those responsible for these harmful acts, and I urge anyone who has been a victim or witness to a hate crime to report by calling 212-335-3100.”