Synagogue Shooting Suspect Federally Charged, Prompts Increased Security and Interfaith Reaction

Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, the man suspected of firing shots outside a synagogue in Albany, New York, has been federally charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Alkhader, who yelled "Free Palestine" during the incident, faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The charge stems from his unlawful use of marijuana. No one was injured in the shooting, and authorities are investigating it as a hate crime. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has directed increased patrols at at-risk sites during the Hanukkah holiday to ensure the safety of Jewish New Yorkers.