39.0°,
Fair Shul raided by police
Synagogue officials call it ‘baseless and unjustifiable’
During Shabbat services last Saturday, seven Nassau County police entered Young Israel of Woodmere on Peninsula Boulevard in Woodmere supposedly acting on a tip that members of the synagogue’s security were carrying illegal firearms.
No pistol permit violations were found and shul leaders were incensed that such a raid took place.
Yehuda Poupko, president of what is considered the largest Orthodox congregation in the U.S in the Five Towns, Shlomo Zuller, chairman of the synagogue’s board issued a statement.
“We wanted to inform you that you may see some stories in the media about some police activity this past Shabbos at our shul. As you may know, law enforcement visited the Young Israel of Woodmere in response to "a tip" which was found to be baseless and unjustifiable.
“In response and in follow-up, the Young Israel of Woodmere is working collaboratively with local law enforcement and our local legislators - we appreciate their collective understanding and concern. We have met with the Chief of the Police Department and we are jointly reviewing the security initiatives recommended by our security consultants to ensure their effectiveness as well as compliance with all local law enforcement regulations.
“As this issue relates to security for our congregation and its congregants, we have declined to make any further comments to the media. We would further request that if anyone is asked for comment, please do not offer any remarks but rather refer any inquiries to one of us.
“Security is a primary concern for us. We assure you that we are taking all necessary steps to create a warm, nurturing and protected environment for our Kehillah.
Should anyone need any further clarification, feel free to speak to one of us at your convenience.”
The synagogue's number is (516) 295-0950.
Shul leaders met with elected leaders such as State Sen. Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach) and Town of Hempstead Councilmen Bruce Blakeman and Anthony ‘Esposito and Nassau County police Chief of Department Steven Skrynecki. They are also supposed met on May 26.
