The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a lawsuit against a group of protestors in New Jersey, accusing them of violently disrupting services at Congregation Ohr Torah and intimidating Jewish worshippers. This legal move, announced on Monday, targets actions that purportedly obstructed participants from engaging in lawful religious ceremonies.

In November 2024, the accused group staged protests at the synagogue, having previously targeted Dr. Moshe Glick, a healthcare professional. Dr. Glick had planned to host the event at his residence, but due to the protests, the venue was shifted to the synagogue. Protestors escalated their tactics by distributing Dr. Glick’s home address on social media along with flyers calling for a demonstration during the event.

The DOJ's lawsuit hinges on alleged violations of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act), which makes it illegal to use force, threats, or obstruction to interfere with religious freedoms at places of worship. Under this act, penalties can be severe, ranging up to a year of imprisonment for a first offense, and up to three years for subsequent offenses.

Further complicating the matter, the DOJ contends that the involved protestors, including groups like the Party for Socialism and Liberation and American Muslims for Palestine, pose an ongoing threat to the religious freedom of others, suggesting potential future violations of the FACE Act.

The legal action seeks not only to halt these alleged activities but also to secure civil penalties and compensatory damages for affected parties. During a press conference, the DOJ referenced the historical application of the FACE Act, originally aimed at curbing protests at abortion clinics, to underline the seriousness with which it views the current violations.

This lawsuit underscores the DOJ’s commitment to protecting the rights of individuals to freely practice their religion without fear of intimidation or violence. As the case progresses, it will potentially set significant precedents regarding the interpretation and enforcement of laws designed to safeguard religious freedoms against increasingly politicized backdrops.

For more details on the lawsuit and the DOJ's statements, visit the official [DOJ website](https://www.justice.gov/crt/media/1415491/dl?inline).