NEW YORK (AP) - Gov. Andrew Cuomo says New York state will defend minorities against an uptick in hate crimes and anti-Semitism.
The Democratic governor said Thursday that he wants lawmakers to approve $25 million to help religious schools hire security and install cameras and alarms to prevent vandalism and other crimes.
Cuomo says a special law enforcement task force will investigate any hate crimes and help to “chase down” those responsible.
The state is also establishing a $5,000 reward for information leading to hate crime convictions.
Cuomo appeared with Jewish, Muslim and Christian faith leaders to discuss efforts to fight what he calls “cowardly, anti-American and anti-New York” acts.
He says he’s concerned by an increase in hate crimes around the country, including recent vandalism of a Jewish cemetery in suburban St. Louis.
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