DOJ Signals Crackdown on Synagogue Protesters Using Abortion Clinic Statute

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The Justice Department is signaling a broader use of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, a law historically associated with abortion clinic protests, to target protesters accused of disrupting religious worship at synagogues. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon said the department has applied the FACE Act to cases involving disturbances at Jewish houses of worship, calling it a 'pioneering application' that 'paved the way' for defending churches as well.

Why it matters

This shift in enforcement strategy reflects the Justice Department's efforts to address a rise in antisemitic incidents, including harassment, vandalism, and disruptions of religious services, since the 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The department views protecting religious freedom and civil rights as critical to preserving the nation's core values.

The details

Dhillon cited a civil lawsuit filed by the Justice Department against protesters accused of disrupting services at a synagogue in West Orange, New Jersey, calling the case a first-of-its-kind application of the FACE Act in that context. She said the department is also reviewing similar incidents elsewhere and warned that additional enforcement actions could follow. Beyond the synagogue protest cases, Dhillon pointed to other Justice Department actions addressing antisemitism, including settlement agreements with universities and hate crime prosecutions.

• The Justice Department's new enforcement approach follows a rise in antisemitic incidents since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Justice Department is reviewing similar incidents of disruptions at places of worship and warned that additional enforcement actions could follow.