The annual High Holy Days briefing was held at Police Headquarters this morning as the NYPD continues to promote open communication between the Jewish community and the Department in advance of the Jewish religious observances beginning with Rosh Hashanah and extending through Yom Kippur.

Community leaders from all sects of the Jewish community were in attendance.

As in previous years, the NYPD is increasing protection in Jewish neighborhoods as Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approaches.

Increased foot patrols and counterterror teams will be patrolling those areas.

Police said although there is not any specific threat, synagogues are considered potential terror targets.

Some synagogues throughout the city will receive unannounced visits from the NYPD’s Hercules units, which consist of heavily armed counter-terrorism officers.

A detailed report and additional photos from the briefing will be forthcoming.

We welcome clergy and community to NYPD HQ for our High Holy Days briefing to discuss security measures and address local concerns as the Jewish community prepares for important religious observances throughout NYC. pic.twitter.com/O4FLN0BKuJ

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) August 28, 2018

“When we have the support of communities around the city, when we have the support of all 8.6 million New Yorkers, that is how we are going to continue to make this city even safer.” –@NYPDONeill on how strong community partnerships are at the foundation of public safety. pic.twitter.com/ykfyxExUE8

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) August 28, 2018

(Charles Gross – YWN)