Muslim Cleric Behind Islamic Center Near Ground Zero Getting Threats

Image Courtesy - Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- Imam Feisal Rauf, the Muslim cleric promoting the building of a controversial lower Manhattan Islamic community center, has received a number of telephone threats in recent weeks and as a result has been under periodic police protection, police officials told ABC News Wednesday. The threats are being investigated by police.

Concerns for Rauf's security escalated in the days prior to the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, when controversy reached a fevered pitch. At that time police officials told ABC that they had discussed with Rauf measures that would ensure his security and safety, though they said at the time that Rauf had not yet received any threats. While the Police Department does not comment on the nature of security arrangements, in Rauf's case it appears that the protection is provided periodically.

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