N.Y. Police: Cabbie’s terror warning a hoax

January 7, 2009

NEW YORK (JTA) -- A warning that Jews should be vigilant about attacks in New York on Jan. 7 is a hoax, the New York Police Department said.

Unsubstantiated rumors have been circulating via blog posts, text messages and e-mails that a Muslim taxi driver tipped off a Jewish woman that attacks on Jewish institutions were planned for Jan. 7.

The New York Daily News reported Wednesday that police have called the threat a hoax.

"There is no terror plot or threat connected to the rumor that is circulating in New York and in other cities abroad," Deputy Police Commissioner Paul Browne told the tabloid. "There are several variations on the rumor, but it is just that, the latest urban myth."

State Assemblyman Dov Hikind, who heard about the threats, had followed up with the FBI, according to the Yeshiva World News.

This article was made possible by the support of readers like you. Donate to JTA now.