Federal prosecutors have filed hate crime charges against a man accused of disrupting services and assaulting individuals at New York City's Central Synagogue. Larry Montes, 46, a Bronx resident, was arrested Friday for what officials are calling a "violent, hate-motivated attack" during Friday evening services.

Montes previously faced state-level charges, including criminal mischief and attempted assault with a hate crime enhancement, following his arrest. The new federal complaint, filed Tuesday by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, brings additional charges of committing hate crimes and damaging religious property resulting in injury.

According to police, Montes allegedly stood up during the service at Central Synagogue in Manhattan and approached the front, shouting, "I am Hashem," a Jewish reference to God. He is accused of knocking over and breaking two candles and their holders. As security personnel escorted him out, Montes allegedly struck a 63-year-old woman, causing a cut lip and bruising her arm, and headbutted a security guard while uttering a racial slur.

During questioning by NYPD officers after being read his Miranda rights, Montes reportedly stated he felt disrespected during the service and that the incident was "all a racial thing" and "all religious motivated," according to the federal complaint. These statements underscore the alleged bias motivating the actions.

Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's New York Field Office, James Barnacle Jr., characterized Montes' actions as "deeply disturbing" and emphasized the FBI's commitment to combating bias-driven incidents. "Hate crimes have no place in New York, and we remain steadfast in protecting every community," Barnacle stated, commending the swift response of security and first responders.

Montes is currently being held on $10,000 bail after an initial appearance related to the state charges. It remains unclear when he will be brought before a federal magistrate to address the new federal complaint. The U.S. Attorney's Office has taken the lead in prosecuting the case under federal hate crime statutes.

The incident has drawn condemnation from various groups concerned about rising antisemitism and hate-motivated crimes. The FBI and local law enforcement agencies have reiterated their dedication to investigating and prosecuting such offenses to ensure the safety and security of all religious and community institutions.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing hate crimes, particularly those that occur in public spaces and target religious communities. The federal charges signal a serious escalation in the legal proceedings against Montes, reflecting the gravity with which such attacks are being treated by federal authorities.