The attempted kidnapping of a six-year-old Hasidic boy in Brooklyn over the weekend has left Jewish communities worldwide on edge, with many expressing concerns about a surge in antisemitic sentiment and violence.
The incident, which was captured on security footage, occurred last Saturday when a masked man tried to snatch the boy from his father in the Crown Heights neighborhood. The father’s quick response thwarted the abduction, and the suspect, 20, was later apprehended with the help of local Jewish security patrols.
Interview with Brooklyn resident Eli Cohen
(Video: Mickey Schmidt)
Brooklyn resident Eli Cohen, who lives near the family, described the community’s reaction as both alarmed and resilient. “We're New Yorkers, so we're used to interesting things happening," Cohen said. He added that while authorities have not confirmed an antisemitic motive, community members are taking precautions amid heightened vigilance.
In Crown Heights and other neighborhoods with significant Jewish populations, some people are on edge amid reports of rising antisemitism across the U.S. and around the world. “People see misleading reports globally, and for those already on edge, it can act as a spark,” Cohen said, highlighting concerns that heightened rhetoric can exacerbate violence against visibly Jewish individuals.
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Attempted kidnapping of Jewish boy in Crown Heights, Brooklyn
(Photo: Shomrim Crown Heights)
Despite such concerns, Cohen emphasized the community’s strong relationship with the New York Police Department, adding that recent meetings with local police officials had reassured residents of their commitment to increased safety.
“There is a sense that we’re not alone, that the authorities care and are willing to do what's necessary to make sure that everyone should be safe,” he said, as Jewish communities worldwide continue to grapple with rising antisemitism.
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