Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., has publicly called on New York Attorney General Letitia James to more aggressively prosecute antisemitic hate crimes, demanding she "do her f---ing job" to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. Lawler's remarks came during a campaign endorsement event where he addressed the rise of antisemitism in the state.
"Rather than running around doing whatever the hell she does, where she plays politics every day, maybe she can actually focus on what her job is," Lawler stated. "Which is to ensure the safety and well-being of New Yorkers as the chief law enforcement officer in the state of New York."
The congressman's criticism follows a recent incident where a man allegedly disrupted Shabbat services at a Manhattan synagogue, assaulting a congregant and a member of the security team. The suspect, Larry Montes, 46, was charged with assault and criminal mischief as hate crimes, with bail set at $10,000 cash and $30,000 in bonds.
Lawler claimed that over 90% of antisemitic hate crimes in New York go unprosecuted and criticized the state's cashless bail policies, urging for stricter enforcement against those who threaten public safety. According to New York Police Department officials, anti-Jewish attacks constituted more than half of all hate crimes in New York City, reflecting an 8.5% increase in antisemitic hate crimes compared to the previous year.
"We have seen a rapid rise in attacks on places of worship. We have seen a rise in antisemitic hate crimes — people being attacked for practicing their faith," Lawler said.
James' office released a statement condemning the synagogue assault, calling it "appalling and unacceptable." Lawler responded by emphasizing the need for prosecution to the fullest extent of the law and for criminals to be held accountable.
Both Lawler and James are candidates for re-election in their respective roles. Lawler was endorsed at the event by several law enforcement groups, including the Police Conference of New York and the Port Authority PBA.