Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, Hate Crimes, New York 2024

Albany, New York - In a disturbing display of hatred and violence, Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, 29, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for conspiring to illegally straw purchase a firearm, obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs with a dangerous weapon, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

On December 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home to Temple Israel, a synagogue in Albany. Upon arriving at the synagogue, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Alkhader walked up the walkway toward the front entrance, brandished the Kel-Tec shotgun, and then twice fired the shotgun into the air while shouting “Free Palestine!” Alkhader attempted to fire a third time, but the shotgun jammed.

As a result of Alkhader’s actions, Temple Israel was forced to cancel a planned concert and candle lighting ceremony to celebrate Chanukah that evening, and its congregants were afraid to return to their place of worship.

“The first amendment gives everyone the right to freedom of religion,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “We will not tolerate hate crimes, especially those that target our Jewish community.”

Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox added, “The Albany Police Department remains committed to protecting all communities and to hold those accountable who seek to spread fear and hate.”

Alkhader’s sentencing reflects the seriousness with which the authorities take hate crimes. The community can rest assured that those who perpetrate such acts will face severe consequences.

The case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the need for law enforcement to work together to prevent such crimes.

Mandatory facts: Defendant/respondent name: Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, Exact criminal charges: conspiring to illegally straw purchase a firearm, obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs with a dangerous weapon, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, City and state: Albany, New York, Exact date: December 7, 2023, Sentence or outcome: 10 years in prison.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/new-york-man-sentenced-firearm-and-religious-hate-crimes-involving-firing-shots-outside