The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the arrest of a suspect who allegedly encouraged attack on synagogues.
The suspect, Matthew Scouras, 34, reportedly posted threats to rape Jewish women and encouraged others to carry out shootings at synagogues. Officers also reportedly found a Nazi flag and an illegal weapon in his bedroom.
SEE: Beverly Man Accused Of Antisemitic Threats Faces Dozens Of Gun Charges
In a statement, CAIR-MA Executive Director Tahirah Amatul-Wadud said:
“We welcome the arrest of this suspect, thank law enforcement authorities for their action in the case and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and all other communities of faith targeted by hatred and violence.”
Amatul-Wadud noted that last year, CAIR-MA welcomed the guilty plea in federal court by John Reardon of Millis, who threatened to bomb synagogues in Attleboro and Sharon.
She added that CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging white supremacy, antisemitism, anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and all other forms of bigotry.
Amatul-Wadud urged houses of worship to utilize CAIR’s Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety guide, which contains security advice applicable to institutions of all faiths.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-MA Legal Director Barbara J. Dougan, 781-281-9992, bdougan@cair.com