Hate crime attacks on Jews in Brooklyn investigated

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - The NYPD is investigating a series of attacks on Jews in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn as hate crimes.

Police have released new security footage of four teenagers who they believe are responsible for at least three of the violent muggings.

As many as six attacks took place in several areas on Monday morning.  Many of the victims were reportedly elderly people on their way to religious services.

One of the victims was rushed to Bellevue Hospital with "major trauma" according to reports from the scene.

The NYPD is adding additional police to patrol the area, according to a tweet by Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Mayor de Blasio condemned the attacks on twitter. “The NYPD is investigating these vicious attacks and our Hate Crimes division is on the scene. We'll be adding additional personnel to patrol the area and keep things safe,” de Blasio wrote.

Governor Cuomo also denounced the muggings and directed the State Police Hate Crimes Task Force to assist the NYPD in its investigation.

"Anti-Semitism is a growing cancer that has been injected into the nation's body but in New York we will continue to stand united and with one voice condemn any and all acts of hatred and intolerance," Cuomo said in a statement. 

Police ask that if anyone is a victim or has information on the crime to call 800-577-TIPS.  There is a $2,500 reward.  Police say that all callers will remain anonymous.