Dearborn Man Pleads Guilty After Synagogue Threats

Hassan Chokr, a 37-year-old Dearborn resident and convicted felon, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm after making antisemitic and racist threats outside Temple Beth El, a synagogue and preschool in Bloomfield Hills, in December 2022. After the threats, he visited a Dearborn gun store, handled several firearms, and attempted to buy a shotgun, rifle, and semi-automatic pistol, lying on federal forms about his felony status and mental health history. He expressed intent to use the weapons for 'God's wrath' and to 'even the score,' but was denied after failing a background check. Chokr had previously been found incompetent to stand trial due to schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and antisocial personality disorder, but was later medicated to competency. Prosecutors and federal officials condemned his actions as a severe threat to the Jewish community and highlighted concerns about increasing antisemitism. Chokr faces up to 15 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for September 24, 2025.