Virginia Man Convicted of Hate Crime for Planning Church Shooting
Former Churchgoer Tried to Obstruct Congregants’ Free Exercise of Religious Beliefs
A northern Virginia man who was arrested during a megachurch’s Sunday services on suspicion that he was about to embark on a mass shooting has been convicted of a hate crime, according to federal prosecutors. Rui Jiang of Falls Church was found guilty of trying to obstruct congregants’ free exercise of religious beliefs, a charge that included a dangerous weapon and an attempt to kill.
Charges and Evidence
A federal jury convicted Jiang of transmitting online threats and a firearms violation. Prosecutors have said Jiang intended to shoot congregation members of the Park Valley Church in Haymarket in September 2023. He was arrested during Sunday services at the church, armed with a handgun and other weapons, after a former girlfriend called police and alerted them to disturbing social media posts he made.
Background and Motives
According to authorities, Jiang had recently joined the church but indicated he was mad at God and at men for blocking him from having romantic relationships with women. He left behind a “final letter” in which he said he intended to only shoot and kill men and apologized in advance for any women who might be “collateral damage.”
Jiang’s Denial and Confession
In interviews with police after his arrest, Jiang acknowledged he was mad at God but denied planning to kill anyone, according to court documents. He admitted he was armed inside the church but said he had a concealed carry permit and was frequently armed.
Federal Prosecution and Sentencing
He was initially charged in state court, but federal prosecutors took over the case last year. The case was put on hold after a competency hearing was ordered, but a judge ruled in July that Jiang could stand trial. Jiang faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison at sentencing on June 18. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.
Conclusion
The conviction of Rui Jiang serves as a reminder of the importance of swift and effective action in preventing hate crimes. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public’s vigilance in reporting suspicious activity were crucial in preventing a potential tragedy.
FAQs
* What was Rui Jiang charged with?
+ Trying to obstruct congregants’ free exercise of religious beliefs, including a dangerous weapon and an attempt to kill.
* What was the motive behind the alleged attack?
+ Jiang was reportedly mad at God and at men for blocking him from having romantic relationships with women.
* What was the outcome of the trial?
+ Jiang was convicted of the charges and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison at sentencing on June 18.
