JCC Association of North America Responds to Arrest of Suspect in Threats to JCCs

 NEW YORK, March 23, 2017 – Today, a suspect with dual Israeli-American citizenship was arrested in Israel in connection with dozens of threats made to Jewish Community Centers across the United States and Canada since the beginning of January. All such threats have turned out to be hoaxes. JCC Association of North America leadership was briefed by, and consulted with, the FBI this morning. In response to the arrest, JCC Association of North America President and CEO Doron Krakow said the following:

“On behalf of the JCC Association of North America and JCCs across the continent, we are gratified by the progress in this investigation, and applaud the commitment and leadership of the FBI and other federal agencies, Israeli law enforcement, and local law enforcement across the United States and Canada.

“We are troubled to learn that the individual suspected of making these threats against Jewish Community Centers, which play a central role in the Jewish community, as well as serve as inclusive and welcoming places for all – is reportedly Jewish.

“Emblematic of the strength of JCCs and the important model they represent for acceptance, inclusion, and appreciation for diversity is the remarkable support we have received from communities and community leaders across North America, including civic, political and faith community leaders. Throughout this long running period of concern and disruption that we are hopeful has come to an end, JCCs have had the opportunity to review and assess our security protocols and procedures, and we are confident that JCCs are safer today than ever before.

“As we celebrate JCC Association of North America’s centennial this year, millions of members and participants across the United States and Canada will continue to pass through our doors, taking part in the extraordinary programs and initiatives that have defined the town square of North American Jewish life. And they will continue to do so with total confidence that JCCs remain a vital and exciting engine for building inspired and ever-stronger communities.”