Douglas Matthew Gurkins, Violating Fair Housing Act, North Carolina 2014

North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Fair Housing Act and Threatening a Family Because of Their Race

In a disturbing case of racial hatred, Douglas Matthew Gurkins, 34, has pleaded guilty to violating the Fair Housing Act by threatening an African-American family with a metal rod and racial slurs in December 2014. The defendant's actions left the family, including four minor children, living in fear in their own home in North Carolina.

According to the defendant's plea agreement, Gurkins drove to the family's home and yelled racial slurs at them, telling them they didn't belong in their home. He then threatened to shoot the family and any other African-American who came onto the property. The family moved out of the neighborhood just days after the incident.

However, this was not an isolated incident. Over the next four years, Gurkins engaged in similar behavior towards two other African-American families living in the same neighborhood. His actions demonstrate a clear pattern of racial hatred and intolerance.

The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of North Carolina, is handling the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Blondel, Trial Attorneys Shan Patel and Laura Gilson, and the FBI's Charlotte Division, Greenville Resident Agency, contributing to the investigation.

Gurkins faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. His guilty plea is a significant step towards holding him accountable for his actions and bringing justice to the families he terrorized.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their race or background. The Fair Housing Act is in place to ensure that all people have equal access to housing opportunities, and Gurkins' actions demonstrate a clear disregard for these rights.

The U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of North Carolina, has vowed to continue investigating and prosecuting those who interfere with federally protected housing rights because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

Douglas Matthew Gurkins, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of criminal interference with the Fair Housing Act. He faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

This disturbing case highlights the importance of addressing racial hatred and intolerance in our communities. We must continue to work towards creating a society where all individuals can live without fear of persecution or violence.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/pr/north-carolina-man-pleads-guilty-violating-fair-housing-act-and-threatening-family-because