Amateur firefighter arrested in Monsey

 A 26-year-old Monsey man who is a member of the non-certified fire brigade Matzelei Aish was arrested on Thursday for obstructing firefighting operations and other charges during a fire on Wednesday, November 27.

Ramapo Police said the structure fire on Kaser Terrace in Kasar broke out at around 11:40 a.m. with the Monsey Fire Department responding.

A member of the uncertified group, identified as Jacob Silberstein, also showed up and opened up a hydrant causing a large amount of water to fill the supply line that hadn’t been properly connected to the fire engine.

Police said those actions could have resulted in a delay in firefighting operations, caused injury to firefighters or further unnecessary damage to the structure.

Following an investigation, Silberstein was also charged with reckless endangerment and obstructing governmental administration, all as misdemeanors.

He was processed and released pending a future court appearance.

Ramapo Police remind residents in Ramapo to immediately call 911 when seeing an emergency, fire, or otherwise, and allow for the response of proper personnel to address the incident, safely, and professionally.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Fire and Emergency Services Director Chris Kear issued a joint statement:

“While the County deeply admires and supports those who choose to be firefighters, it is critical that this rogue fire company stops encouraging residents to call them directly instead of 911, knowing full well they lack the proper training to fight fires effectively.”