The horrific events in Australia serve as a stark and tragic reminder of the persistent, lethal threat of antisemitic terrorism. However, New York City is not a place where such hatred will be tolerated, nor where celebrations of faith will be surrendered to fear.
This Hanukkah, from Sunday, December 14, 2025, and continuing for eight days, Stone Security Service, in direct coordination with the NYPD Counter-Terrorism Bureau (CTB), the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), will ensure the safety of the Manhattan Menorah Lighting at Central Park (59th Street, across from the Plaza Hotel).
One Team, One Mission: The Strategic Framework
The annual Hanukkah Menorah lighting is a profoundly symbolic and high-profile event. To ensure the safety of every attendee, our security operation transcends the efforts of any single agency. It requires a seamless, highly integrated partnership between private sector experts and elite public law enforcement.
At the forefront of this collaboration is David Stone, founder of Stone Security Service. Leveraging his extensive background alongside the NYPD, Mr. Stone provides the critical link between private security expertise and the vast intelligence capabilities of public agencies. Stone Security Service acts not merely as a vendor, but as an integrated force multiplier.
Advanced Screening Protocols: AI-Integrated Security
Our “Defense-in-Depth” strategy is designed to detect, deter, and delay hostile actions well before they reach the core celebration area. Key elements of our technical deployment include:
- Next-Gen AI Metal Detectors: We mandate the deployment of USA-style, AI-integrated walk-through metal detectors (WTMD). This technology enables high-volume screening, maintaining smooth crowd flow while identifying specific threat items, such as firearms and large weapons.
- Behavioral Analysis: Stone Security personnel are trained not only in equipment operation but also in pretext and anomaly detection—identifying individuals exhibiting signs of stress, evasion, or hostile intent.
- Secondary Screening: Any alarm is handled in a discreet secondary area using handheld detectors and professional bag searches, conducted with the highest respect for civil rights and professional courtesy.
K9 Explosive Detection: The Non-Intrusive Edge
The use of K9 explosive detection teams is a non-negotiable layer of our counter-terrorism strategy.
- Pre-Event Sweeps: Stone Security coordinates with NYPD/CTB Bomb Squad personnel to execute comprehensive sweeps of the site, infrastructure, and surrounding vehicles to establish a “Clean Zone.”
- Sustained Patrols: During the event, NYPD K9 units conduct random patrols. These highly trained dogs provide a mobile, non-intrusive method of detecting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), providing both a practical and psychological deterrent.
The Intelligence Brain: JTTF Integration
While our teams handle physical security at the perimeter, the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) provides the critical, invisible layer of pre-emptive intelligence.
Prior to the lighting, analysts from both JTTF and Stone Security conduct exhaustive threat assessments. Global threat streams and monitoring of extremist activity are funneled directly to our command staff, ensuring that every officer on the ground is looking for the right indicators.
Resilience Through Professionalism
The Menorah lighting security plan is a masterclass in public-private partnership. By integrating elite personnel, advanced AI technology, and world-class counter-terrorism intelligence, we create an impenetrable security envelope.
Stone Security Service is proud to stand with the NYPD and our community to ensure that the Festival of Lights remains a celebration of faith, resilience, and safety in the heart of Manhattan.
Looking for Elite Security for Your High-Profile Event?
Trust the experts who lead NYC’s most sensitive security operations. Contact Stone Security Service Today to learn more about our protective services and counter-terrorism solutions.
