The holiday runs through Dec. 22
The mass shooting in Australia on Sunday has prompted Los Angeles law enforcement to intensify protection of local Hanukkah celebrations.
“The Los Angeles Police Department is deeply saddened by the tragic mass shooting attack that occurred during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia,” it shared in a statement on Sunday. “We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Australia and here in Los Angeles, and our thoughts are with the victims, their families and all those impacted by this senseless act of violence.”
The Dec. 14 massacre left 15 people dead and dozens injured. People had gathered that afternoon for a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach when suspected father and son gunmen, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who is in custody, and 50-year-old Sajib Akram, who was shot and killed by officers, attacked.
At the time of posting, the LAPD noted there was no known threat to Los Angeles but assured its commitment to “protecting our diverse communities. As part of this commitment, the LAPD will provide extra patrols at Jewish facilities, schools, synagogues and at Hanukkah events throughout the city” and that it “will continue to work closely with our local, national and international partners” to monitor developments and ensure the safety of our city. Together, we can honor the spirit of Hanukkah by standing united against hate and violence.”
Hanukkah runs from Dec. 14 to 22.
Similarly, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department shared its plans to closely monitor and increase patrols of Jewish community spaces and Hanukkah gatherings. “If you see something, say something,” the LASD said in a statement.