Fake Bomb With ‘Anti-Jewish Writings’ Left At UC Berkeley
University of California Berkeley campus Image by Getty Images
(JTA) — A resident of Berkeley, California brought a fake bomb with “anti-Jewish writings” on the package into the University of California Berkeley Police Department.
Michael Fleming, 48, was charged last week with sending a false bomb, designed to cause fear for ones’ safety.
He was not charged with a hate crime despite the words on the bomb’s outside packaging, and despite making “racial slurs towards the Jewish Culture” and yelled anti-Jewish statements “consistent” with the wording on the package during his arrest, Berkleyside reported, citing police. A Nazi symbol also was drawn on the box, which included anti-Semitic statements and noted “bomb inside.”
A bomb technician x-rayed the box and discovered that there was no bomb inside, according to reports.
Fleming was captured on security videotape leaving the package in the lobby of the campus police. A plea hearing in the case is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 11.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
