County Executive George Latimer said: “As we approach the holiest of seasons across multiple faiths, it is imperative that we all feel safe in our places of worship. Our hearts go out this morning to those impacted by the horrific acts of terror that took place against the Muslim community at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. In response, I have ordered the Westchester County Department of Public Safety to increase patrols and communication with mosques, synagogues and churches across Westchester. We stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters as they mourn this attack on their faith and we must remember there is no room for hate and violence, of any kind against any group, here in Westchester. As Dr. King said, ‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.’”

Westchester County Human Rights Commission Chair Rev. Doris K. Dalton said: “The Westchester County Human Rights Commission strongly condemns the hate-fueled attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. In Westchester, we strive to build strong relationships with worshipers of all faiths as we understand that our community belongs to all of us. Together, we can overcome this wretched hatred.”

Westchester County Department of Public Safety Commissioner Thomas Gleason said: “In light of the New Zealand Mosque shootings earlier today, the Westchester County Dept. of Public Safety will be conducting increased inspections at all Houses of Worship within our areas of primary jurisdiction.  We have also asked our local law enforcement partner agencies, through our NYS Counter Terrorism Zone (CTZ3) affiliation, to do the same. As always, we ask our citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to their local police agency or the NYS Toll Free Tips Line at 1-866-723-3697.”