Authorities Foil Alleged Synagogue Attack Plot, Arrest Alabama Suspect

Authorities in Alabama say they have prevented a potential mass attack after arresting a man accused of making violent threats against synagogues across the state and surrounding areas, as reported by The New York Post.

The Clarke County Sheriff’s Office in Grove Hill confirmed Tuesday that 45-year-old Jeremy Wayne Shoemaker was taken into custody Monday night in Needham, Alabama, following what officials described as “credible threats of violence made against multiple synagogues throughout Alabama and surrounding states.”

“Likely acts of violence were averted before they happened,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. Deputies executed a search warrant at Shoemaker’s residence, where they reportedly found several firearms, body armor, and “more than a suitcase full of ammo.”

According to the department, investigators also uncovered evidence suggesting Shoemaker had planned not to be taken alive and had “intentions of possibly planning attacks on public figures as well.”

The sheriff’s office confirmed that “numerous” federal agencies are now involved in the investigation and that “multiple federal charges are likely.” For now, Shoemaker faces state charges, including resisting arrest and illegal possession of firearms by a prohibited person.

Tommy Loftis, public affairs specialist for the FBI’s Mobile Field Office, told JNS that Shoemaker is currently being held at the Clarke County Jail on state charges while federal authorities continue their investigation.

Clarke County Sheriff DeWayne Smith credited the coordinated response between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies for preventing what could have been a deadly incident.

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“Because we worked together, you’re not reading about in the paper a situation where there was a mass shooting or something, and everybody’s wondering how we could have prevented it,” Smith said. “This is what happens when all the agencies work together.”

🚨🇺🇸 FBI FOILS PLANNED SYNAGOGUE ATTACKS ACROSS ALABAMA

Federal agents and local authorities stopped a series of potential synagogue attacks after arresting suspect Jeremy Wayne Shoemaker in Needham, Alabama.

A search uncovered weapons, ammunition, and body armor linked to the… https://t.co/GvYgeWNjFv pic.twitter.com/XQ5ZftOTUx

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) October 29, 2025

The Birmingham Jewish Federation released a statement Tuesday confirming that “there is no credible threat to our community at this time.” The organization expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their quick and coordinated response.

“We are deeply grateful that swift and coordinated action by the FBI, state investigators and local law enforcement prevented what could have been a devastating act of violence,” the federation said.

“This incident is a sobering reminder that threats motivated by antisemitism and hate persist. Yet it also highlights the power of partnership, preparedness, and vigilance.”

Federal officials have not yet announced what additional charges Shoemaker could face, but investigators say the case remains open as multiple agencies continue to examine the scope of the threats and the weapons found in his possession.