Morris, Essex law enforcement heighten patrols at houses of worship amid global tensions
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — Law enforcement leaders in Morris and Essex counties have increased patrols at houses of worship and critical infrastructure following reports of a bomb strike against Iran and threats of retaliation, officials announced.
The joint advisory was issued by Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, Morris County Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Essex County Chief of Detectives Mitchell G. McGuire III, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Essex County Sheriff Amir D. Jones, and Morris County Police Chiefs Association President Jonathan Delaney.
Officials said patrols have been stepped up at synagogues, mosques, churches and other sensitive sites. The move comes amid a “heightened threat environment” advisory from the Department of Homeland Security, warning of potential cyberattacks and hate crimes motivated by retaliation.
“Members of Morris County law enforcement are absolutely committed to combatting antisemitism and any other forms of religious discrimination that violate our criminal laws,” Carroll said. “We are proactively working with local religious leaders to provide facility security hardening and ensure quick response to any situation potentially involving criminal misconduct.”
Stephens urged Essex County residents to remain alert. “While there is no specific threat to our area at this time, we are especially concerned about keeping our synagogues, mosques, and churches safe,” he said.
Sheriff Gannon emphasized the importance of public awareness, calling vigilance “critical at this time.” Sheriff Jones added, “We stand firmly against all forms of hate and remain committed to safeguarding every resident’s right to live, worship, and thrive in peace.”
Thomas “Chip” Michaels, chief security officer for the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, said community safety is a top priority and praised law enforcement collaboration during “these tenuous times.”
Officials encouraged residents to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
