Hate Crimes
“This report should be a call to action for all Canadians to stand against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate,” said Shimon Koffler Fogel of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs.
The charges include reckless endangerment as a hate crime, criminal possession of a weapon, conspiracy, aggravated harassment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Michael Park, 33, who was arrested several times in 2021 for attacking members of the Jewish community, was sentenced to 36 months of probation and time served.
Joel Jexie, 25, of Elmhurst has been charged with three counts of hate crime and one count of criminal damage to property.
Police arrest Aubrey Dragonetti, 31; Dylan Henry, 30; Ryan Mulhollen, 27 • Charge each with 115 counts each of aggravated harassment.
Authorities have asked residents in and around Elmhurst to check their home-security video systems “for suspicious people or vehicles.”
“I don’t think this is even a political issue anymore. This is about securing our community and making sure that we don’t have orphaned kids—2-year-olds—as a result of celebrating at a function like the Fourth of July,” said Lonnie Nasatir, president of the Jewish United Fund.
The event will be held at the Central Avenue Synagogue, 874 Central Ave.—just blocks from the perch where a 21-year-old gunman unleashed death and destruction.
Trevor York, 35, has been charged with seven counts of mischief and damage to property, and one count of break and enter.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker arrived quickly at scene and spoke to media, calling for an end to gun violence • Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin: “The nation’s prayers are with Highland Park.”
When images of the now-apprehended suspect began circulating, Schanowitz realized that he had seen the young man before: in Chabad’s Central Avenue Synagogue.
The annual celebration features floats, including Chabad’s giant menorah, marching bands and other special entertainment, and draws a crowd of thousands.
