NEW YORK - The Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents, issued Tuesday, counted a total of 209 incidents in New York State in 2009.

New York ranked second in the nation for the overall number of anti-Jewish incidents in 2009, behind California with 275 incidents. In the five boroughs of New York City, there were a total of 132 incidents reported to ADL.

 “Though we are encouraged that the level of anti-Semitic incidents in New York held steady in 2009, we must continue to work to move the number down,” said Ron Meier, ADL New York Regional Director. “Physical assaults against Jews, a thwarted synagogue bomb plot, and the arrest of a Brooklyn livery driver who distributed “Kill Jews” fliers are reminders that Jews in New York continue to be targeted by anti-Semitic violence and harassment. Constant vigilance and education is a must.”

 “Overall, New York provides a very good environment for Jews,” added Jeffrey M. Parker, ADL New York Regional Chair. “Yet there are still instances of Jews being attacked simply because they are Jewish. Even one such incident is one too many and has a ripple effect on the community.”

Nationwide, the ADL Audit counted a total of 1,211 incidents during the 2009 calendar year, including 29 physical assaults on Jewish individuals, 760 incidents of anti-Semitic harassment and threats, and 422 cases of anti-Semitic vandalism.

According to the Audit, New York State experienced 79 incidents of harassment, 10 reports of physical assault and 120 instances of vandalism.

Following are the total number of anti-Semitic incidents in specific regions: