New York State Police are expanding surveillance and protection for at-risk communities after a thwarted attack on New York City Jewish communities and a shooting at an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office said.
State Police officials will be working with local and federal law enforcement officials to increase security for communities that have been targeted for hate crimes, Hochul said.
"I have directed the New York State Police to ramp up monitoring and increase support for communities that are potential targets of hate crimes," Hochul said. "Here in New York, we will not tolerate violence or bigotry toward any community. We stand united against hate — today and every day."
The shooting at the Colorado nightclub left at least five people dead, according to reports. On Sunday, state and federal police arrested two men after making threats toward the New York Jewish community and a house of worship.
"The State Police will work in close coordination with our state, local and federal partners to keep all our communities safe from violence," Acting Superintendent Steven Nigrelli said. "We appreciate the resources and support from Governor Hochul to help us accomplish this mission."
Earlier this year New York sought to expand its efforts to thwart violent hate crimes following a shooting at a Buffalo supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood of the city.
State officials have sought to expand monitoring of social media accounts and platforms where hate speech can spread. At the same time, new legislation in New York that took effect in October will increase the reimbursement for victims and survivors of hate crimes who have lost essential or personal property that was damaged as a result of the event.
New York lawmakers and Hochul also agreed this year to expand the red flag law, a measure meant to keep guns away from people deemed to be a danger to themselves or the public at large.
The shooting in Colorado this weekend alarmed state lawmakers, who called for further action.
"It is a sad reality that in many parts of the country it’s easier to purchase an assault rifle than it is to seek gender-affirming care for your child," said state Sen. Brad Hoylman, a Democrat from Manhattan. "As we memorialize the victims in Colorado, we must continue our efforts in Albany to protect LGBTQ people from hatred, gun violence and discrimination.”