Related Federal Cases
Amish Hate Crimes Send 16 to Prison
BERGHOLZ, Ohio – A string of brutal hate crimes against Amish practitioners has landed 16 suspects behind bars. The crimes, which took place in Ohio between September and November 2011, involved the forced removal of beards and head hair from victims with whom the defendants had ongoing religious disputes.
The victims’ beards and hair are symbols of their faith, according to trial testimony. The defendants, all members of the Amish community in Bergholz, Ohio, were found guilty of conspiracy to violate the Matthew Shepard-James Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act and obstruction of justice.
A jury delivered the guilty verdict last September, and the defendants were sentenced this week. Samuel Mullet, 67, received a 15-year sentence, while Johnny S. Mullet, 39, Lester Mullet, 28, of Hammondsville, Ohio, Levi F. Miller, 54, and Eli M. Miller, 33, received seven-year sentences.
Other defendants received significantly shorter sentences, including Daniel S. Mullet, 38, who was handed a five-year sentence, as well as Linda Shrock, 45, who received a two-year sentence. Freeman Burkholder, 32, of Irondale, and several others received one-year and one-day sentences.
The hate crimes, which were carried out by members of the Amish community against perceived enemies, involved the use of hired drivers and the forced removal of beards and head hair using scissors and battery-powered clippers.
The defendants, led by Samuel Mullet Sr., the Bishop of the Amish community in Bergholz, exerted control over the community through corporal punishment and other means, according to trial testimony. The investigation and prosecution of the hate crimes took place under the leadership of Thomas E. Perez, the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division.
The convictions mark a significant victory for the Amish community, who had been subjected to brutal attacks by their own members. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of hate crimes and the importance of upholding the law to protect vulnerable communities.
RELATED: Shepard Sentenced to 15 Years for Violent Assault on Correctional Officers
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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