Governor Andrew Cuomo has ordered state police to increase patrols in Islamberg, the tiny Muslim community located near Binghamton, that was the target of a planned bombing attack.
Greece Police announced the arrest of four people for the plot on Tuesday.
Officers said the four suspects, 20-year-old Brian Colaneri, 18-year-old Andrew Crysel, and 19-year-old Vincent Vetromile, along with an unidentified minor, had planned an attack against the community and built at least three bombs using mason jars, duct tape, black powder and projectiles like BBs and nails.
All four suspects had attended school in Greece at some point.
In a statement Wednesday, Governor Cuomo says:
“I am relieved and grateful that law enforcement in Greece, New York prevented what could have been a horrific and senseless act of violence and hate against the Islamberg Muslim community in Delaware County. I applaud the authorities who thwarted this attack and the students who courageously raised the alarm with police and potentially saved lives.
“Out of an abundance of caution, I am directing State Police to increase patrols in the area. In addition, I am directing the State Police Hate Crimes Unit to assist the authorities in the investigation.
“This foiled terror attack is repugnant to everything we stand for in New York. While there are those in Washington who continue to fan the flames of division and Islamophobia, such hate has no home in our state. In New York, we stand with the Muslim community and we will hold those behind this thwarted plot responsible to the full extent of the law.”
The three adult suspects are charged with criminal possession of a weapon and conspiracy. However, police say the FBI is investigating along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal charges could be filed.
