(Courtesy of JFNNJ) This year has been described by Tim Torell, Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey’s director of security, as the most professionally challenging of his more than 40 years in law enforcement. Yet, despite these challenges, his dedication to safeguarding our community has yielded remarkable accomplishments. Under his leadership, hundreds of community members in Bergen and Hudson counties have been trained in active-shooter response and cybersecurity programs. Just this year, Federation assisted Jewish community organizations in northern New Jersey in winning over $1 million in state and federal grants for security upgrades. In response to antisemitic activity on local college campuses, Torell has built strong partnerships with Public Safety Departments at the five northern New Jersey colleges with Hillel programs supported by Federation.
The following Q&A delves into Torell’s experiences, the current climate and more specifics on the work Federation is doing to keep the community safe.
What is the current climate in the community regarding antisemitism, particularly since October 7?
Since October 7, emotions in our community have ranged from fear and panic to cautious concern. At times like these, I encourage everyone to stay “alert, not alarmed.” This mindset, a cornerstone of our security training, empowers individuals to respond effectively to emergencies while avoiding unnecessary fear. It’s not always easy, but it’s a powerful approach that can make all the difference in a crisis.
What has been most surprising about the current climate in the community?
There are four things that immediately come to mind:
The overwhelming volume and intensity of threats, including record-breaking swatting incidents reported by the Secure Community Network (SCN). In addition, the sophisticated nature of the threats and persistence from foreign entities.
The resilience and rapid mobilization of Jewish communities that have adapted quickly to enhanced security measures. The community has adapted and implemented enhanced security measures while maintaining operations.
Increased collaboration between Jewish organizations and law enforcement, achieving new levels of coordination, which has been crucial in responding to threats and ensuring the safety of institutions.
Greater community engagement in security training, creating a more vigilant and prepared population.
Who are our security partners, and how do these partnerships work?
Even before October 7, the dramatic spike in antisemitism across our country in 2022 and 2023 had the unintended consequence of forcing our extensive Jewish communal security network to better integrate and avoid the pitfalls of working in isolation. Our Federation is part of the Jewish Security Alliance of New York and New Jersey, co-founded in March 2023. We work closely with organizations like CSS (Community Security Service), SCN, ADL, Community Security Initiative (CSI), and others across the region, forming a robust network to safeguard our community. Additionally, we have strong ties with local, state, and federal law enforcement, leveraging decades of experience and extensive connections to enhance our collective security efforts. These relationships are critical and have proven to be very effective.
How can residents help improve security?
Report, report, report is the short answer. Report every incident—big or small. Reporting drives resources and legislation. The “See something, say something” mantra is critical. Stay aware, involved and proactive in sharing concerns with law enforcement or local security directors.
Is the situation improving or worsening?
While threats have increased, so has our unity and resilience. In my daily interactions with rabbis, lay leaders, facility security teams and the average person, it’s obvious the events over the last 400-plus days have had a profound psychological impact, leading to increased anxiety and fear within our community. But this has also sparked a renewed sense of Jewish identity and solidarity—and that’s a good thing for all the obvious reasons.
As a seasoned law enforcement professional, has anything surprised you?
Throughout my four-decade career in law enforcement, one of the most transformative developments has been the proliferation of video evidence. From body cams for police officers and the military to high-definition security camera systems and cell phone cameras, society now expects that every crime will be captured on video. And why not? Reliable video evidence provides an indisputable record of events.
However, despite the hundreds, even thousands, of hours of video documenting the heinous acts committed by Hamas on October 7, I am astounded by the denial and justification of these atrocities. This total denial has been the most surprising and disheartening aspect for me.
What role does Federation play in combating antisemitism, and is there hope?
The answer to the second part of that question is yes, there is hope. Someone once said that most people are at their very best when things are at their very worst. This has never been truer for the Jewish people. Resilience, defined as the capacity to withstand or recover quickly from difficulties, is exactly what we are witnessing right now. Resilience defines us. Together, we will face these challenges with determination and hope, supporting one another every step of the way.
Federation is playing a crucial role in this effort by providing vital advice, guidance and resources across several key areas:
- Enhanced security measures.
- Community engagement and education.
- Mental health support for coping with increased threats.
- Advocacy to ensure our voices are heard by policymakers.
- Sharing stories of strength and positive outcomes.
Resilience defines us. Together, we will face these challenges with determination and hope, supporting one another every step of the way.
If you would like any additional information, have a crime or incident to report, please contact Tim Torell at [email protected] or Stu Conboy at [email protected].
