A Pennsylvania man is facing federal charges after allegedly sending an antisemitic threat to a public official via social media.
Authorities believe the threat posed a serious risk, and the suspect is currently being held as a potential danger to the community.
What Happened
Federal prosecutors have charged 29-year-old Edward Owens Jr. of Elizabeth, Allegheny County, for making a violent antisemitic threat against a public official.
The alleged threat was sent through social media and is now at the center of a federal case.
Key Details
According to Acting U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti, Owens allegedly sent a threatening message including antisemitic language and imagery.
Court documents reveal the threat stated:
“We’re coming for you [emoji of person raising right hand] [German flag emoji] be afraid. Go back to Israel, or better yet, exterminate yourself and save us the trouble. 109 countries for a reason. We will not stop until your kind is nonexistent.”
The phrase “109 countries” is commonly used in antisemitic rhetoric to falsely suggest that Jewish people have been expelled from 109 nations throughout history.
The Department of Justice confirmed the targeted individual is a public official who regularly interacts with the public but did not disclose their identity or role.
Reactions or Statements
Federal authorities have requested that bail be denied.
Prosecutors argue that Owens poses a “danger to the community” due to the violent nature of the threat.
The Department of Justice and Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti emphasized the seriousness of the case, though they have not released a public statement beyond the formal charges.
Investigation or What’s Next
The federal court will hold a hearing on June 5 to determine whether Owens will remain in custody pending trial.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl J. Spindler is leading the prosecution.
No further information has been released regarding the status of the investigation or additional charges.
FAQs
Who is Edward Owens Jr.?
He is a 29-year-old resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, now facing federal charges for making antisemitic threats.
Who was the target of the threat?
The specific identity and position of the public official have not been disclosed.
What does “109 countries” refer to?
It is a widely debunked antisemitic claim falsely suggesting that Jewish people have been expelled from 109 nations throughout history.
What happens next in the legal process?
A court hearing is scheduled for June 5 to decide on bail. The trial will follow.
Why is bail being opposed?
Prosecutors argue that Owens poses a community threat due to the hateful and violent nature of the threat.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Edward Owens Jr. is charged with sending a threatening, antisemitic message to a public official in Pennsylvania.
The federal government considers him a threat to public safety and is seeking to deny bail.
A court will decide his detention status on June 5 as the case moves forward.
