Trump's week in review: Gaza peace deal push, Quantico speech
1. DOJ issues FACE Act charges against violent protesters at NJ synagogue
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Monday that it was prosecuting the New Jersey chapter of the national Party of Socialism and Liberation, as well as the New Jersey chapter of American Muslims for Palestine and other groups that engaged in a violent protest at the Congregation Ohr Torah Synagogue in West Orange, New Jersey.
These groups are being charged under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.
While traditionally used to prosecute those who engage in protests at abortion clinics, the FACE Act also has a provision subjecting anyone who “intentionally injures, intimidates, or interferes with or attempts to injure, intimidate or interfere with any person lawfully exercising or seeking to exercise the First Amendment right of religious freedom at a place of worship” to federal charges.
A complaint against the defendants filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey alleges that they physically assaulted worshipers and shouted antisemitic chants and threats at them.
“No American should be harassed, targeted, or discriminated against for peacefully practicing their religion,” said U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in a statement announcing the lawsuit. “Today’s lawsuit underscores this Department of Justice’s commitment to defending Jewish Americans — and all Americans of faith — from those who would threaten their right to worship.”
Ryan Foley is a reporter for The Christian Post. He can be reached at: ryan.foley@christianpost.com
