Boulder Man Indicted on Multiple Counts of Hate Crimes

A public demonstration turns chaotic as tensions rise amidst calls for justice.

News Summary

In Boulder, Mohamed Sabry Soliman faces 12 counts of hate crimes related to a violent incident during a demonstration for Israeli hostages. The chaos erupted when Soliman allegedly attacked attendees with Molotov cocktails, resulting in injuries to multiple individuals. Driven by an extremist ideology, he had reportedly been planning the attack for nearly a year. Despite having no prior criminal history, Soliman’s actions have raised significant concern in the community as the case progresses through the legal system.

Boulder Man Indicted on Multiple Counts of Hate Crimes

A Boulder man, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, finds himself facing serious allegations after a federal grand jury decided to charge him with 12 counts of hate crimes. The charges are linked to a shocking incident that unfolded during a demonstration supporting Israeli hostages held by Hamas on June 1.

The Incident

During a gathering called the “Run For Their Lives” event at the popular Pearl Street Mall, the atmosphere turned chaotic when Soliman allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at participants. The demonstration was aimed at raising awareness about Israeli hostages, but instead, it became the site of violence. As a result of the attack, at least 15 people, including a dog, suffered injuries that ranged from burns to smoke inhalation.

Details of the Attack

Soliman, an Egyptian national, was already facing two hate crime charges prior to this grand jury indictment. Investigators assert that he had been plotting this attack for almost a year, driven by a disturbing intent described as wanting “to kill all Zionist people.”

Evidence collected from his vehicle included a handwritten note that contained intense rhetoric against Zionism, calling it “our enemies until Jerusalem is liberated.” This document, among other findings, points to his apparent premeditated efforts. Reports indicate he was even equipped with a backpack sprayer filled with flammable liquid and had 18 glass bottles of incendiary materials, signifying a well-thought-out plan.

Statements During the Attack

Witnesses say that as Soliman unleashed his attack, he shouted phrases calling for the liberation of Palestine. This revelation has amplified the seriousness of the charges against him. Following his actions, he was taken into custody and underwent interrogation, during which he reportedly expressed his intent to take revenge, highlighting that he had previously looked up “Zionist events” online in preparation for his assault.

The Legal Charges

The indictment consists of nine counts for causing injuries motivated by race, religion, or national origin, along with three counts for using fire or explosives to commit felonies. The legal framework falls under 18 U.S.C. § 249 and 18 U.S.C. § 844(h). It’s worth noting that Soliman had already been indicted on June 2 for a related hate crime. To add to the complexity, he is also facing 118 charges in state court, including 28 counts of attempted murder.

Background on Soliman

Soliman entered the United States on a B-2 tourist visa in August 2022, though that visa has expired. Despite his serious allegations, he has no prior criminal history and was known to work as a driver for Uber. His family life has also come into the spotlight; Soliman’s wife and five children were detained by immigration agents, but a federal judge has temporarily blocked their deportation.

Defense and Next Steps

In an interesting twist, Soliman’s defense attorney argues that the attack was not fueled by hatred towards Jewish individuals specifically, but rather by opposition to the political movement of Zionism. This stance raises questions about the motives behind his actions and adds complexity to the case.

As the legal proceedings continue, Soliman’s next court appearance is set for this Friday, where he will have the opportunity to enter a formal plea. The community remains on edge as they await the outcome of this troubling situation.

What’s Next?

As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of how quickly public demonstrations can turn into scenes of violence and hate. Communities are consistently grappling with issues related to intolerance and the consequences of actions driven by extreme ideologies. People are left to wonder what further developments will arise in this case, and how such incidents can inspire a collective push for understanding and peace in the future.