The NYPD announced on Wednesday that it is heightening efforts to combat hate crimes in the Jewish community with Passover one week away.  

The pledge to crack down on Jewish hate crimes will start with boosting security outside places of worship. Recent data shows that attacks on Jewish New Yorkers are on the rise.  

A recent report by the Anti-Defamation League shows antisemitic crimes were up 39% in 2022 compared to 2021. New York state led the list with 580 reported incidents – two-thirds of those taking place within the five boroughs.  

“The NYPD stands with every single New Yorker during Passover and beyond and will protect this right to worship freely,” said NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell.  

Sewell says that the NYPD is increasing patrols around synagogues, and community affairs officers across the precincts will visit religious locations citywide to speak with residents and leaders in the community.  

Police officials say there have been no credible threats toward places of worship, but they called attention to recent attacks against the Jewish community, including a Manhattan incident in which police say a man was attacked for wearing his yarmulke.  

Sewell says she also wants the public to lend their eyes and ears to keep the Jewish community safe during Passover.