Suspect in custody for New Jersey synagogue firebombing

NEW JERSEY - The man charged with attempting to firebomb a synagogue in Bloomfield, New Jersey and appeared in federal court Thursday.

According to police, Nicholas Malindretos, 26, of Clifton, was wearing all black with his face covered when he allegedly lit and threw a Molotov cocktail at the front door of the synagogue.

Authorities say Malindretos had the black sweatshirt in his car that he wore at the crime scene when he was pulled over.

He was being held without bail after an initial court appearance on Thursday afternoon.

The incident took place Sunday around 9:30 a.m. at Temple Ner Tamid, located at 939 Broad St.

Surveillance video captured the incident.

Police said there were no injuries to report. The glass bottle broke but did not cause any damage to the temple.

"No one should find that their lives are at risk by exercising their faith," U.S. Attorney Sellinger said. "The defendant is alleged to have gone to a synagogue in the middle of the night and maliciously attempted to damage and destroy it using a firebomb.

Malindretos faces several charges, including attempted use of fire to damage or destroy a building. If convicted, he faces 20 years in prison.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Bloomfield Police Department Detective Bureau at 973-680-4084.