'Operation Safeguard' Will Increase Patrols For Upcoming Religious Observances

HAWTHORNE, NY — Law enforcement agencies in the Hudson Valley have announced special coordinated efforts to step up security ahead of upcoming key religious holidays.

The Westchester County Police Department and its law enforcement partners will increase patrols around houses of worship and religious gatherings. The efforts will take place over the next two months as community members observe holy days during Ramadan, Passover, Lent and Easter, according to officials.

The Westchester County Police Department and the law enforcement agencies within Counter-Terrorism Zone 3 (CTZ-3) are participating in Operation Safeguard. The initiative includes an increased police presence around religious institutions and mass gatherings for religious observances. CTZ-3 encompasses both Westchester and Putnam counties.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said the extra security efforts this time of year aren't new.

"As is customary during all major religious and secular holidays, law enforcement in Westchester will be on heightened alert," Jenkins said. "We also encourage the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to their local police department."

Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor said there are no known specific or credible threats at this time. However, the law enforcement community is taking proactive measures out of an abundance of caution.

In addition to expanded patrols, Raynor said county police and its municipal law enforcement partners will monitor social media, and will also review intelligence information provided by federal and state agencies regarding potential threats to Westchester and its religious institutions. This information is already shared through the multi-agency Real Time Crime intelligence center, located at Westchester County Police Department headquarters in Hawthorne.

"Westchester County is proud of its diverse faith communities," Jenkins said, "We remain committed to ensuring that every resident can observe their traditions in peace and without fear."