Related Federal Cases
- Nicholas T. Billman, AK-47 Armed Robbery, Ohio 2015 · Illinois
- Johnny Will Murray Jr., Meth Dealer and Firearm Trafficker, Moultri… · New Jersey
- Lenelle Gray, Felon in Possession of Firearms, Cleveland OH, 2023 · Ohio
- Anthony J. Natale, Mailing Hoax Powder, Warren MI, 2023 · Illinois
- Joshua Jackson Sentenced to 70 Months for Gun Trafficking, Camden N… · Illinois
Nicholas Malindretos, Synagogue Firebomb Attempt, NJ 2023
BLOOMFIELD, NJ – A 26-year-old man from Clifton, New Jersey, allegedly tried to torch a synagogue in Essex County early Sunday morning, federal authorities announced Wednesday. Nicholas Malindretos is facing federal charges after surveillance footage captured him hurling a Molotov cocktail at the Temple Ner Tamid Jewish Congregation in Bloomfield.
According to court documents, at 3:19 a.m. on January 29, 2023, Malindretos approached the temple disguised in a black ski mask, dark hooded sweatshirt bearing a skull and crossbones emblem, and white gloves. He ignited a makeshift firebomb – a bottle with a lit wick – and threw it at the synagogue’s front doors before fleeing the scene on foot. Fortunately, the device did not fully ignite and caused minimal damage.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger minced no words in condemning the alleged act. “No one should find that their lives are at risk by exercising their faith,” he stated. “The defendant is alleged to have gone to a synagogue in the middle of the night and maliciously attempted to damage and destroy it using a firebomb.” Sellinger emphasized that protecting houses of worship is a core mission of his office and vowed to dedicate “whatever resources are necessary” to ensure the safety of the Jewish community and all New Jersey residents.
Federal investigators quickly zeroed in on Malindretos after a license plate reader captured a vehicle matching his passing near the synagogue shortly before and after the incident. The swift investigation involved a multi-agency collaboration between the Newark FBI, ATF, Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, and local law enforcement. “We take seriously all threats of hate and bias aimed at all religions and faiths, and we intend to hold accountable all those who target them,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) underscored the severity of the alleged crime. “An alleged attempted firebombing on a house of worship is an attack against the entire community,” he said. Malindretos is charged with one count of attempted use of fire to damage and destroy a building used in interstate commerce. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Newark federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Edward S. Kiel on February 2, 2023.
Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II echoed the sentiment, noting that interfaith communities are often prime targets for hate. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of religious-based violence and the importance of vigilance and swift law enforcement action.
Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Press Release
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
