Harrisburg, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) strongly condemns the antisemitic, racist, and threatening messages that were broadcast over public safety radio channels in Allegheny County earlier this week.
According to reports, an unidentified individual accessed a county public safety radio frequency and transmitted hateful messages, including antisemitic rhetoric, racist slurs, and threats directed toward Mayor Corey O'Connor. Authorities have confirmed that the transmissions came from an unauthorized user accessing an analog radio system and that local, county, and federal partners are investigating the incident.
“These hateful broadcasts are deeply disturbing and unacceptable,” said Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW PHRC Executive Director. “When antisemitic propaganda, racist rhetoric, and threats are injected into public safety communication systems, it spreads fear and undermines the very institutions meant to protect our communities. The PHRC stands firmly with the Jewish community, communities of color, and all those targeted by hate. Pennsylvania must remain a Commonwealth where every person can live free from intimidation and discrimination.”
Officials have increased patrols around religious institutions as the investigation continues.
“I’d first like to thank the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and its partner agencies at the local, state and federal level for their swift response to investigating this incident,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor. “When I learned of this activity, I was immediately in contact with the head of the Jewish Federation because we take every antisemitic message seriously. There is no room for hate in Pittsburgh and we will not be intimidated by those behind this. We are a welcoming city, and we will always protect our communities.”
The PHRC also emphasized the broader harm caused when hateful rhetoric circulates publicly and unchecked.
“These messages are especially alarming because they attempt to weaponize fear through systems designed for public safety,” said Dr. La Dawn Robinson, PHRC Pittsburgh Regional Director. “Pittsburgh is a city strengthened by its diversity. Acts of hate, whether spoken in person, online, or over public airwaves, have no place here. We are grateful to law enforcement and emergency services officials who are working swiftly to identify those responsible.”
“Hate speech and threats, particularly those rooted in antisemitism and racism, are felt far beyond the moment they are broadcast,” said Anita Levels, PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Coordinator. “They instill fear, retraumatize communities, and challenge the sense of safety that every resident deserves. We must remain vigilant and united in confronting hate wherever it appears.”
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission urges anyone with information about the incident to cooperate with investigators. For more than 70 years, the PHRC has worked to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth can live, work, and thrive free from discrimination. The Commission continues to stand with communities across Pennsylvania in rejecting antisemitism, racism, and all forms of hate.
About the PHRC:
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all people. The PHRC investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. Anyone who has experienced discrimination is urged to file a complaint by calling 717-787-4410. Information and resources are also available on the PHRC website. Follow the PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
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