New City – Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann hosted a security and safety briefing at Town Hall this afternoon to kick off Operation Omnipresent in response to a Hamas threat of a “global day of anger” planned for Friday, October 13, 2023.
There are NO SPECIFIC THREATS reported in the Town of Clarkstown at this time. In an abundance of caution, the Clarkstown Police Department will be operating on a heightened security protocol. The Clarkstown Police Department’s Cultural and Religious Security Unit (CaReS) will be fully activated to ensure the safety of numerous religious and cultural institutions across the town. This specialized task force was formed in 2020, and the Clarkstown Police Department is the only police department in the county that operates a unit dedicated to the protection of these institutions.
Participating in the briefing were members of Congressman Lawler’s staff, Senator Bill Weber, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski and local officials.
Supervisor George Hoehmann stated, “The Town of Clarkstown is fully prepared to keep our residents and visitors safe. This afternoon I hosted a safety and security briefing with our police command staff and local officials to launch Operation Omnipresent. We are operating at a heightened level of security given worldwide terrorist threats made regarding Friday, October 13th, particularly targeting members of the Jewish faith. There are no specific threats impacting our community at this time, but we are fully prepared thanks to our wonderful police department and emergency management staff.”
Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamker stated, “Clarkstown Police Department will be taking expanded measures to keep our community safe this weekend given the ongoing worldwide security climate. We have no specific threats to our town and everyone should go about their normal business. As always, be vigilant and if you see something suspicious report it to our department immediately. Our CaReS unit is fully activated and will be coordinating with organizations throughout every corner of the town.”
If you see something, say something. In emergency situations call 9-1-1. Non-emergency calls can be placed to the general dispatch number for the CPD at 845-639-5800.
