Federal hate crime charge against Boulder Molotov suspect advances

A federal judge in Denver found probable cause to advance a hate crime charge against Mohamed Sabry Soliman, who allegedly hurled Molotov cocktails at a Boulder rally supporting Israeli hostages. Soliman faces 118 charges, including 28 counts of attempted first-degree murder, and is being held on a $10 million bond. The case's significance hinges on whether animosity toward Zionism qualifies as a hate crime under federal law. Assistant U. S.

Attorney Melissa Hindman argued Soliman targeted victims based on their perceived national origin, while defense attorney David Kraut emphasized that his client's motivations were political, not personal. The hearing revealed that one victim was a child in a wheelchair, highlighting the attack's severity. The ruling could set a legal precedent with implications beyond Colorado, as it challenges the interpretation of hate crime laws. Another hearing in this case is scheduled for June 27. The outcome may influence how hate crimes are defined in future cases.