CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Maurice Hopkins, 32, of Mt. Holly, N.C., stood before United States Magistrate Judge Susan C. Rodriguez today and pleaded guilty to federal civil rights violations for a chilling incident at a Charlotte pizza joint.
Hopkins admitted in court that he threatened eight individuals with force, including racial slurs and a firearm, inside the restaurant on June 8, 2024. According to court records, Hopkins called the victims terrorists, demanded they speak English, and told them to return to their country. He even went so far as to threaten physical violence and murder.
Upon leaving the restaurant, Hopkins returned minutes later with a loaded AR-15 style rifle, causing the victims to flee. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon and Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr., along with U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson, announced the charges against Hopkins.
Hopkins pleaded guilty to one count of interference with federally protected activities, carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. His sentencing date is yet to be determined, and he remains in federal custody.
The FBI Charlotte Field Office took the lead in investigating this case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller and Trial Attorney Chloe Neely prosecuting on behalf of the Western District of North Carolina.
This shocking incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to protect civil rights and ensure public safety.
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Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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