Orange County councilman faces scrutiny for alleged antisemitic remarks

A controversial councilman in Orange County, who is well-known for his anti-police rhetoric, is once again facing scrutiny - this time for alleged antisemitism.

News 12 Staff

Oct 21, 2021, 10:05 PM

Updated 929 days ago

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A controversial councilman in Orange County, who is well-known for his anti-police rhetoric, is once again facing scrutiny - this time for alleged antisemitism.
Newburgh Councilman Omari Shakur seems to be at it again in the latest rant, which was caught on camera Tuesday.
It was allegedly directed toward a group of Jewish landlords fixing up buildings on Broadway.
Jewish community advocates are concerned with the controversial councilman's behavior, which was previously also seen directed toward police.
This time, city officials say Shakur was responding to a resident's concern about unsafe construction at a site and claim words were exchanged that made the councilman upset.
The landlord was issued a stop work order following the verbal attack.
A site manager tells News 12 they were cited for garbage and asked for work plans already provided for their permit.
News 12 reached out to the Building Department but didn't hear back.
Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey says that "Shakur's behavior is under investigation," but that despite his seemingly unprofessional conduct, he has the support of voters who voted him in, including Jay H. on Facebook who said, "The councilman is 'passionate about his community' and 'fighting' for constituents."
The incident follows a rise in antisemitism both locally and nationwide.
Shakur was arrested in August for refusing to cooperate with state police during a traffic stop.
News 12 reached out to the councilman for comment but hasn't heard back.


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