Teen Arrested for Alleged Antisemitic Threats at NYC Charter School

NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force investigating incident at Renaissance Charter School in Jackson Heights

Feb. 3, 2026 at 3:07pm

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A 17-year-old student at the Renaissance Charter School in Jackson Heights, New York was arrested on February 2nd for allegedly sending an email threatening to 'kill all the Jews' at the school and in the city. The student was charged with making a terroristic threat and aggravated harassment as a hate crime.

Why it matters

Antisemitic threats and incidents have been on the rise in New York City and across the country in recent years, causing significant concern within the Jewish community. This arrest highlights the continued need for vigilance and action to address hate crimes targeting Jewish individuals and institutions.

The details

According to a law enforcement source, the student sent an email message stating, 'At 2pm we will rise up and kill all the Jews in this school and the city. F**k the Jews.' The email was sent from a school email address under the student's name. Police from the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force arrested the 17-year-old at the school just before 3:30 pm on Monday.

  • The email threat was sent on February 2, 2026.
  • The student was arrested at the school just before 3:30 pm on February 2, 2026.

The players

Renaissance Charter School

A charter school located in the Jackson Heights neighborhood of New York City.

NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force

A specialized unit within the New York Police Department that investigates crimes motivated by bias, prejudice, and hate.

Jessica Ramos

A New York State Senator representing parts of Queens, including the Jackson Heights area.

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What they’re saying

“I am relieved that no one was harmed and that the student is in custody. Our Jewish neighbors, students and families deserve safety, dignity and protection. We will continue working with school leaders and law enforcement to keep our community safe.”

— Jessica Ramos, New York State Senator (Social media)

What’s next

The student's arraignment in Queens Criminal Court was pending on Tuesday, February 3rd.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of addressing antisemitism and hate crimes in New York City schools and communities. Continued collaboration between school leaders, law enforcement, and elected officials will be crucial to ensuring the safety and security of all students and residents.