New York Republican Lawmaker Demands Attorney General Prosecute Rising Antisemitic Hate Crimes

Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., delivered sharp criticism of New York Attorney General Letitia James during a campaign event, contending she has neglected to adequately address antisemitic hate crimes proliferating across the state. His remarks came in response to a recent assault at a Manhattan synagogue and were directed at what he described as James’ failure in her enforcement responsibilities.

A Bronx man identified as Larry Montes, 46, entered a Manhattan house of worship during Shabbat services, where he attacked both a congregant and a security team member. Montes was arraigned with bail set at $10,000 cash and $30,000 in bonds, facing two counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of criminal mischief as a hate crime.

Lawler stressed the need for aggressive prosecution and criticized the practice of releasing suspects on cashless bail. He highlighted data indicating that anti-Jewish attacks account for more than half of all hate crimes in New York City, representing an 8.5% increase year-over-year, according to New York Police Department officials.

James, who has pursued high-profile prosecutions against President Donald Trump, released a statement condemning the assault as “appalling and unacceptable.” Lawler dismissed her statement as insufficient, calling instead for full prosecution of offenders and stronger enforcement action to protect New Yorkers exercising their religious freedoms.

Both officials are seeking re-election to their respective positions. Lawler’s campaign event included endorsements from the Police Conference of New York, Port Authority PBA, Rockland County PBA, New York State Fraternal Order of Police, and additional law enforcement organizations.