Updated: Bomb Threat Targets RI Jewish Community Center

PROVIDENCE, RI—Police conducted a sweep of the Jewish Community Center on Elmgrove Avenue after a reported bomb threat. But nothing was found.

Police have cleared the scene, according to Lindsay Lague, the press information officer for the Providence Police Department.

Related Story: Jewish Centers Once Again Targeted By Threats

The JCC is on Providence's East Side not far from Blackstone Boulevard.

U.S. Cong. David Cicilline on Monday afternoon issued a statement "on Anti-Semitic Threats, Violence" and called on President Trump to denounce these crimes in the strongest terms.

Trump made a statement six days ago denouncing vandalism at Jewish cemeteries and called anti-Semitic threats "horrible."

During Monday afternoon's press conference, White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer mentioned Monday's threats against Jewish community centers and recent vandalism at Jewish cemeteries. He reaffirmed the president's stand opposing anti-Semitism.

Here is Cicilline's press release.

"U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) today issued the statement below condemning a bomb threat made against the Jewish Community Center on Elmgrove Avenue, as well as similar threats that were made against at least 16 Jewish community centers and day school around the country. These threats come just days after vandals targeted Jewish cemeteries in Philadelphia and St. Louis.

“'The people who carried out these actions have one purpose – to silence and intimidate members of our community. They will not succeed. Rhode Islanders and people all across our country are already coming together to oppose these acts of hatred. We will continue to stand up to those who seek to divide us.

“'Last year, as a candidate, President Trump refused to denounce David Duke. He retweeted praise from white nationalists. And he used anti-Semitic imagery to attack his opponent. There is little question that his victory has emboldened and encouraged anti-Semitism. This has to end.”

“'The President needs to denounce these crimes in the strongest terms. He needs to devote the full resources of law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice. And we, as a community, must continue to condemn such acts of hatred.”

“'Finally, I want to thank the members of the Providence Police Department who responded to this threat in a quick and professional manner. All of us are grateful for their service to our community,” Cicilline said.

Patch will update this story as information becomes available.