By: Richard L. Smith
A Montclair man has been arrested after authorities said he hacked into a Fort Lee condominium’s communication system and sent hundreds of threatening, hate-filled emails targeting Jewish and African American residents.
According to a statement released by Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, 23-year-old Nicholas M. Scarano was taken into custody following a joint investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes and Bias Crimes Units and the Fort Lee Police Department.
The probe began on August 14, 2025, when Fort Lee police reported that residents of the Atrium Palace condominium complex had received two overnight mass emails containing racist and threatening language.
Investigators said 411 residents were targeted after the suspect unlawfully gained access to the building’s online management and messaging system.
Detectives traced the digital trail to Scarano’s Montclair residence, where investigators executed a court-authorized search warrant the following day.
Authorities said Scarano used two electronic devices to hack into the system and send the bias-laced messages.
Scarano faces multiple charges, including bias intimidation, terroristic threats, false public alarm, and unlawful computer activity.
Prosecutor Musella emphasized that the investigation reflects the commitment of law enforcement to swiftly address bias crimes and cyber threats in Bergen County.