Submitted by Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
(December 16, 2025) — In response to the recent mass shootings in Rhode Island and Australia, the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, along with law enforcement across Connecticut, has taken immediate steps to support affected communities and enhance public safety.
“Both the Connecticut State Police Intelligence Operations Unit and the agency’s Connecticut Intelligence Center have been closely monitoring the situation since the weekend. We are not aware of any credible threats toward the Jewish community or other religious groups here in Connecticut,’’ said Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins.
“Connecticut State Troopers will be at public Hanukkah celebrations across Connecticut to provide additional security and reassure participants that these are safe events,” Higgins said. “Troopers will maintain heightened awareness and provide a presence at all Jewish community events this holiday season.”
Commissioner Higgins will also discuss security concerns with Jewish leaders this week in the wake of the attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. An ongoing nonprofit state grant program has provided $15 million in security grants to religious institutions in recent years.
“Everyone should have the opportunity to practice their faith peacefully and not fear violence because of their religious beliefs,” said Gov. Ned Lamont. “Connecticut’s law enforcement is among the best and most professional in the nation and they are dedicated to keeping everyone safe, especially as they gather, worship, and celebrate this holiday season.“
“In light of the tragic events in Australia, the Connecticut State Police are maintaining heightened awareness and working closely with our intelligence partners to monitor any potential threats,’’ said Col. Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “Troopers will have a visible presence at public Hanukkah celebrations and other Jewish community events throughout the holiday season. Our goal is simple: to keep people safe and to ensure families can gather, worship, and celebrate without fear or intimidation.’’
Evan Allard, Director of DESPP’s Connecticut Intelligence Center (CTIC), said Connecticut residents should immediately report any suspicious or illegal activity in progress by calling 9-1-1. “Research has consistently found that a high percentage of individuals who carry out violent acts display concerning behaviors that are noticeable to others, sometimes years in advance of the attack,’’ Allard said.
The CT Safe app allows citizens to easily report suspicious activities. Suspicious activity may also be reported to CTIC via https://portal.ct.gov/demhs/homeland-security/suspicious-activity-reporting-form.
“These are anxious times for the Jewish community. Our agency, intelligence analysts and state police are doing everything we can to keep the Jewish community, and all communities, safe here in Connnecticut,” said Michael Bloom, Hate Crimes Initiative Coordinator. “Our agency will continue to state loudly that hate has no place in Connecticut. Our Hate Crimes Investigative Unit continues to educate the public, collaborate with schools and assist local police departments with hate incidents.”
