Kentucky Antisemitism Task Force discusses how to strengthen security at places of worship, community spaces

The Kentucky Antisemitism Task Force met Wednesday to discuss how to increase security at places of worship and community spaces.

It’s part of an ongoing series of meetings by the group, which was created through an executive order to address a rise in antisemitic hate crimes.

The Jewish nonprofit Secure Community Network says they received 5,400 reports of threats and suspicious activity towards Jews last year.

William Altman of SAFE Louisville said they spoke to Jewish groups about how to best implement safety measures. The task force spoke about implementing similar programs throughout Kentucky.

“We wanted to create a minimum standard of physical security. That's barrier entry, alarm systems, direct linkages of the alarm systems with local authorities, safe rooms within Jewish agencies, and also training of people,” Altman said.

That also includes enhancing surveillance systems and improving communications with other Jewish organizations in other states.

Lexington Chief of Police Lawrence Weathers spoke about establishing a network with local religious leaders.

“We share our personal cell phone numbers, and that communication is key,” Weathers said. “One reason for that communication to happen frequently is a lot of times when there's a threat out there, especially on social media, it can spread like wildfire, and that fear is what we need to contain.”

The committee also discussed how to get federal money for safety infrastructure through FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program.

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