Jewish community centers across the country have recently been targeted by multiple bomb threats. Many of these establishments, including one in New York, have been subjected to a number of threats over a two-week period. A federal investigation is underway to determine if there are any possible civil rights violations associated with the threats.
Similar threats have been made to these community centers in several states, prompting evacuation of each facility. Police have searched each of the facilities thoroughly, and so far have not found any explosives on-site. While there have been no reported injuries, the threat of attack alone can violate the safety of anyone involved.
Being forced to live in fear of attack can in some cases be as detrimental to a person’s health as actually being physically injured. People who have been the subject of similar threats may suffer from anxiety, as well as other mental conditions, and become unable to work or perform other daily tasks. If a person is at a facility when a similar threat is made, he or she may also become afraid to return to the facility in fear of future attacks.
A person should not have to live in fear of attack for any reason. Regardless of race, sex, age, national origin or religion, everyone has the right to live and operate in a safe environment. If a person feels he or she is being targeted by threats or attacks under these circumstances, relief may be sought through the civil justice system. When facing a similar situation, people in New York often seek the advice of an attorney who is experienced in handling cases involving civil rights violations.
Source: NBC New York, “Threats Called In at JCCs in at Least 10 US States“, Jan. 31, 2017
