Grimy Times has learned that Richard Holzer, a 27-year-old Pueblo, Colorado resident, has been accused of a federal hate crime for plotting to blow up the Emanuel Synagogue in Pueblo, Colorado.
According to court documents, Holzer planned to destroy the historic synagogue, which appears on the National Register of Historic Places, by using explosives and fire.
Holzer, who identifies as a white supremacist, was quoted as saying to undercover FBI agents that he wanted to do something that would make it clear to Jewish people in the community that they were not welcome and should either leave or die.
In repeated conversations with the agents, Holzer expressed his hatred for Jews and his support for a racial holy war (RAHOWA). He suggested using explosive devices to destroy the synagogue and "wipe it off the map."
Holzer was arrested on November 1, 2019, after meeting with undercover FBI agents who provided him with inert explosive devices, including two homemade bombs and 14 sticks of dynamite.
He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison if convicted.
The charges against Holzer are merely an accusation, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Martinez and Litigation Counsel Michael J. DeLaCruz of the Civil Rights Division, with the support of Section Chief Erin Creegan, Counterterrorism Section, National Security Division.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Pueblo Police Department and the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office.
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Key Facts
- State: Colorado
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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