Evolving security threats require heightened vigilance

In light of the Times Square bomb plot, the subway plot and other recent events, intelligence and law enforcement analysts assume that Al-Qai’da and its affiliates have an undiminished intent to attack the United States and that there are people already here who might do so with little, or no, warning. The number and pace of the attempted attacks against the United States over the past nine months have surpassed the number of attempts during any other one-year period. Note: there are no known, specific threats to the Jewish community or to our institutions.
Some patterns underlying of recent attempts lead analysts to consider the possibility of attacks using improvised explosive devices or small arms. Likely targets include “softer” targets such as transportation hubs and mass transit, government buildings and commercial facilities.

Times Square Arrest Info

See the NYPD Shield report on the arrest of Faisal Shahzad here.

Times Square Car Bomb Info

Read the NYPD summary here. While there is no information indicating any connection to the Jewish community, the NYPD conclusions are relevant and Jewish organizations should factor these considerations into their security planning:

• Vehicles loaded with incendiary materials are easy to procure and could potentially cause significant damage.
• But as was the case in London and Times Square, timed ignition of incendiary devices is difficult at best.
• Ordinary automotive vehicles draw little attention, however, vehicles operated in out of the ordinary ways, such as left running unattended or parked in a hurried manner, call for attention.
• If You See Something, Say Something! Report suspicious activity to: 1-888-NYC-SAFE (1-888-692-7233)

New York State Non‐Profit Homeland Security Preparedness Study

New York State is fortunate to be the home of thousands of not‐for‐profit institutions (NFPs) that enrich our lives and provide vital services to our residents. These institutions provide the State with valuable and essential medical, religious, educational, social, cultural and recreational services that all New Yorkers benefit from. New York State is committed to working with the NFP community to identify its security needs and develop solutions to security vulnerabilities.

Read about the security needs of New York State not-for-profit institutions and what resources and strategies are available to assist with providing security here.