Shepard T. Hoehn, 50, of Lawrence, Ind., is staring down federal hate crime and firearms charges after allegedly terrorizing his Black neighbor with a campaign of racist intimidation — including a burning cross, a swastika, and a machete on display. Hoehn was charged in federal court with one count of violating 42 U.S.C. § 3631 for making racially motivated threats, and two counts of violating 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) for unlawful possession of firearms. The criminal complaint was unsealed today in the Southern District of Indiana.
According to the affidavit, Hoehn targeted his African-American neighbor in a deliberate effort to drive him from his home. He erected a swastika on a fence facing the victim’s property, burned a cross above the fence line, and posted a large sign riddled with anti-Black racial slurs. He placed a machete next to the sign and repeatedly blasted the song “Dixie” at high volume. Federal prosecutors say the actions were calculated to instill fear and interfere with the man’s right to live in and enjoy his home — all because of his race.
“Although the First Amendment protects hateful, ignorant and morally repugnant beliefs and speech, it does not protect those who choose to take criminal actions based on those beliefs,” said U.S. Attorney Josh J. Minkler. “This office will continue to prosecute federal hate crimes to the fullest extent of the law.”
Lawrence Police and the FBI launched an investigation after the victim reported the threats. Hoehn admitted during questioning that he was angry over a dispute with the neighbor and knew his actions would intimidate and frighten the family. Agents later executed search warrants at Hoehn’s residence, where they found multiple firearms and drug paraphernalia. Records revealed Hoehn is a fugitive from a Missouri case and legally barred from possessing guns under federal law.
“The FBI takes allegations of civil rights violations very seriously and will not tolerate harassment and intimidation directed at individuals because of their race,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “Such incidents represent not just an attack on an individual, but also on the victim’s community, and are intended to create fear. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work to identify those committing these acts to ensure the rights of all Americans are protected.”
Hoehn faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the three charges if convicted. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Shephard and Trial Attorney Katherine DeVar of the Civil Rights Division. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation — Hoehn is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Those who believe they are victims of civil rights violations can report at civilrights.justice.gov or call 855-856-1247.
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Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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