Indiana Synagogue Increases Security, Prepares for the Worst

The Congregation at Indiana's Shaarey Tefilla Synagogue partners with Indiana State Police to train for an active shooter.

• By Sydny Shepard
• Jan 11, 2019

Due to recent tragic incidents, houses of worship around the country are implementing security measures and training themselves against active assailants—measures and training they hope they never have to use. 

For Indiana synagogue Shaarey Tefilla, a recent graffiti incident coupled with the news of the Pittsburgh shooting that killed 11 people at a synagogue was the final straw. The congregation is now working to increase the security around their property as well as partner with Indiana State Police to understand what to do in an emergency situation.

"Unfortunately anti-semitic events are on the rise," Rabbi Benjamin Sendrow told Fox 59. "Mass shootings are more and more common. God willing we will never need to use the training we are about to receive, but God forbid we're even in a situation where we do not have to use it — we will be prepared."

The Indiana State Police spoke with members of the synagogue, explaining early signs and behaviors of active shooters, what to do in an active shooter situation, and what to expect from law enforcement. 

"There is no picture, there is no sketch of what a typical active shooter looks like," Senior Trooper Nick Klingkammer told members.