Top officials of the NYPD addressed the media Monday to discuss a spike in hate crimes seen this year.

Police data shows that hate crime arrests have increased more than 100% this year when compared to 2021. The most recent incident pattern involves three Jewish men, who the NYPD believe were targeted because they are Jewish.  

Increased police presence has begun in Williamsburg in wake of these attacks. With school starting next week, many in the Jewish community are feeling uneasy. 

“We are terrified, we are distressed,” said Rabbi Sam Smith. “If people can be beaten in the early morning… then kids will be afraid walking to school.”

Two of the attacks that took place recently happened in the early morning, around 6 a.m. Both victims were sprayed with fire extinguishers last week, while on their way to pray at their local synagogue. Their accused attacker was arrested on Monday.  

The third attack took place Thursday when a man wearing traditional Jewish clothing was slapped in his face. His accused attacker is a juvenile that has also been arrested.  

“We’ve deployed around-the-clock house of worship cars to routinely visit synagogues,” said NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell, who says that attacks on Jewish New Yorkers alone are up 45% from last year.  

The NYPD says they are finalizing arrangements and protocols ahead of the upcoming holidays.