A 23-year-old man from Utah has been charged with terrorism and hate crime offenses after allegedly making violent threats against a well-known synagogue in Manhattan. Luis Ramirez was arrested on February 14 while trying to enter Manhattan through the Lincoln Tunnel. Law enforcement acted quickly after his alarming online posts were flagged by the Community Security Initiative.
According to reports, Ramirez made several disturbing threats on social media. In his posts, he claimed to be Adolf Hitler “in a past life” and allegedly threatened to kill Jewish people, making references to World War II. One of his posts specifically mentioned plans for an attack on Central Synagogue in Manhattan.
When Ramirez appeared in court on March 6, he was seen grinning in handcuffs. Prosecutors revealed that Ramirez had been discharged from a military training school in Virginia due to psychological issues, and his behavior raised serious concerns. Judge Julieta Lozano ordered a mental health evaluation after learning about his history of severe mental health conditions, including psychosis and delusions.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg made it clear that threats like these would not be tolerated. “Luis Ramirez allegedly made extremely disturbing and serious threats against Central Synagogue, and we have absolutely no tolerance for this conduct,” Bragg stated. “He is now charged with significant terrorism and hate crimes charges and was remanded into custody. Any form of antisemitism is despicable, and I want Manhattan’s Jewish community to know we are remaining extremely vigilant.”
If convicted, Ramirez could face up to 15 years in prison. He remains in custody without bail and is scheduled to appear in court again on March 20.
