West Hartford Synagogue Requests Extra Security After 'Suspicious' Women Visit

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Emanuel Synagogue has requested extra police presence for a concert on Saturday night after a pair of “suspicious” women attended services over the weekend, according to the Hartford Courant.

The Courant reports the women, who were dressed in headscarves and robes, attended the end of Shabbat services at the Mohegan Drive synagogue on Saturday and acted “out of the ordinary” and gave “vague and conflicting answers” to basic questions, such as where they were from and what their interest in the synagogue was.

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Emanuel Synagogue President Sheila Silverman sent an email to members notifying them about the women, who were also spotted at the Chabad “Fire and Ice” menorah lighting ceremony Sunday night in Blue Back Square, according to the Courant.

“Due to national, and worldwide, events we are all in a heightened state of concern and awareness,” West Hartford Lt. Ted Stoneburner said in a statement. “As such, law enforcement has encouraged citizens to call if they see something that is out of the ordinary. This is exactly what happened over this past weekend.

“The police department has been in contact with the leadership of the Jewish Federation in regards to their concerns. The behavior of the individuals in question, although unusual, does not rise to illegal or criminal activity. We are continuing to investigate any and all leads that we have with this case.”

Fox 61 reports security at the Mandell Jewish Community Center and local synagogues has been increased as a precaution.

In a letter to parents of children who take part in programs at the Mandell JCC, officials said police spoke with the women and said there was no risk to the community, but the synagogue asked police for enhanced security as a precaution, according to Fox 61.

Read more at the Hartford Courant here and Fox 61 here.