“News of today’s swift arrest of the suspect wanted in Sunday’s firebomb attacks can bring some relief to the residents, businesses and places of worship that were affected by these heinous acts. I want to thank the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force for aggressively searching for the person responsible for these senseless and dangerous attacks.”

“Earlier today, I met with the Mayor, Commissioner Kelly and leaders of the Muslim community to offer any assistance to ameliorate any tension the community may be feeling due to the string of firebombs that occurred during the night hours of New Year’s Day.”

“Incidents like these only too often remind us that hate crimes hurt everyone, and any act of violence against members of the Muslim and Hindu community is an act of violence against us all. We must put an end to the intolerance that breeds this hatred. New York City prides itself on diversity and acceptance of all its residents and this act goes against the very fabric of what our city stands for.”

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