SCN Applauds Arrest Of California Man Following Violent Threats Targeting North Carolina Jewish Community, Law Enforcement, And Elected Official
The Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, commends the swift action by federal authorities leading to the arrest of Kevin Dunlow, 62, of Huntington Beach, California. Dunlow faces federal charges after allegedly making explicit, violent threats targeting Jewish institutions, law enforcement, and an elected official in North Carolina while residing in California.
Around 07 May, Dunlow allegedly issued numerous threats that included stating, “I am coming to the Temple to kill all the Jews and the children” and declarations such as “Jews didn’t deserve to live. Jews didn’t deserve to be on this earth. I’m going to kill the Jews.” Additionally, Dunlow allegedly made a false bomb threat to the Wake County Sheriff’s Office as well as threatened several members of law enforcement and an elected official.
Dunlow was charged with illegally threatening to harm or kidnap another person intentionally, and with illegally knowingly making false reports about bombs. He faces five years in prison, on each charge, if convicted.
This arrest is a reminder that Jewish Americans continue to face violent threats from individuals threatening to kill them and their children; in this case, the alleged offender targeted not only the Jewish community but also the dedicated members of law enforcement and other public servants.
SCN National Director and CEO Michael Masters
The swift and meaningful actions taken by law enforcement and prosecutors stopped a potentially violent individual from acting. SCN is grateful for the tireless efforts of local law enforcement, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and those that supported this investigation, in keeping our community safe amidst heightened threats.
SCN National Director and CEO Michael Masters
In 2023, SCN logged a record 5,404 threat incidents and suspicious activity reports, 112% higher than 2022’s total of 2,551. Additionally, SCN worked closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement, including the FBI, to refer 1,619 individuals to authorities in 2023 — a 110% increase in referrals from 2022.
In response to this complex and dynamic threat environment, SCN has worked in coordination with local, state, and federal authorities and local and national Jewish community partners to respond to these incidents and ensure coordination between law enforcement and the Jewish community across North America.
SCN urges every community to remain vigilant and recommit to preparation, review and enforce existing security protocols, and maintain coordination and communication with law enforcement and security personnel. For imminent threats or emergencies, dial 9-1-1, and report all suspicious activity to local law enforcement as well as appropriate local reporting authorities, and SCN’s 24/7 Duty Desk at [email protected] or by calling 844-SCN-DESK.
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