County Executive Marc Elrich said Montgomery County has increased police patrols around mosques and Islamic community institutions ahead of Eid-al-Adha on May 27 following Monday’s attack om a San Diego Mosque that left three victims dead.
Elrich said the County stands firmly against Islamophobia, antisemitism, hate, and political violence, and emphasized that officials are working with faith leaders, community organizations, and law enforcement to help ensure residents can gather and worship safely. He also encouraged anyone who experiences or witnesses a hate-bias incident to report it to the Montgomery County Police Department.
“With Eid-al-Adha coming at the end of the month (May 27), we know that this incident may increase fears around celebrating safely. I know that members of Montgomery County’s Muslim community are shaken and concerned, and I want them to know that their safety is a priority. Out of an abundance of caution, the Montgomery County Police Department has increased patrols around mosques and Islamic community institutions across the County.
Montgomery County stands firmly against Islamophobia, antisemitism, hate, and political violence in all forms. We will continue to work closely with faith leaders, community organizations, and law enforcement to ensure people can gather, worship, and live without fear.
If you are the victim of a hate-bias event or witness a hate-bias event, the Montgomery County Department of Police encourages you to come forward and report what happened. Call 911 for emergencies and urgent situations, for non-emergencies call the non-emergency number or report hate/bias on the portal at Reporting Hate Bias Incident – Montgomery County Police Department – Montgomery County, MD.”
