A man from New Jersey has been charged with federal hate crimes for incidents targeting Jewish individuals in Manhattan last year. Alazim Baker, 29, of Irvington, has been indicted on two counts, each carrying a potential maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton and FBI Assistant Director in Charge Terence G. Reilly announced Baker’s arrest and the unsealing of the indictment, highlighting efforts to address faith-based violence.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Baker’s actions escalated on October 27, 2025, when he assaulted a visiting Israeli rabbi. The incident began with Baker confronting the rabbi about his religion and culminated in a physical attack outside a well-known kosher restaurant, resulting in damage to Jewish symbols and serious injury to the victim.
The incident continued when two additional individuals wearing yarmulkes attempted to intervene. Baker allegedly attacked them as well, reportedly making anti-Semitic remarks and inflicting injuries using brass knuckles. The original victim was able to seek safety inside the restaurant. Law enforcement has indicated that Baker’s alleged actions targeted individuals based on their Jewish faith.
Statements from Clayton and Reilly note that the incidents have caused harm to the victims and affected the broader community. The FBI’s investigation led to Baker’s charges and reflects the agency’s stance against violence motivated by hate. Baker’s indictment signals that such actions will face legal consequences.
The efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies played a key role in bringing Baker to justice. The FBI, Manhattan District Attorney's Office, New York City Police Department, and Port Authority Police Department were publicly recognized by Clayton for their work. The Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office, led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Emily A. Johnson, will prosecute the case. While the indictment represents a significant step, the charges are allegations, and Baker is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
