Feds: Man tried to firebomb Ohio church to cease drag present

CLEVELAND — An jap Ohio man advised investigators that he tried to burn down an Ohio church as a result of he needed to stop a drag present that was scheduled to happen there, federal prosecutors allege in newly unsealed fees.

Aimenn Penny, a 20-year-old from Alliance who’s a member of a “white lives matter” group that espouses racist and neo-Nazi views, tried to burn down the Neighborhood Church of Chesterland early on March 25, authorities allege in court docket paperwork unsealed Monday. Chesterland is a small neighborhood east of Cleveland.

Based on the legal grievance, Penny stated he tried to burn down the church utilizing Molotov cocktails as a result of he needed to “shield the youngsters and cease the drag present occasion.” He additionally regretted that it didn’t work, authorities stated.

The FBI stated the church, which was unoccupied on the time, sustained minimal harm and had scorch marks on the entrance door. Based on court docket paperwork, investigators discovered damaged glass from a vodka bottle and a beer bottle every containing a cloth-type materials, together with a burnt matchstick and a blue plastic spray bottle stuffed with gasoline.

Penny was arrested March 31 and stays in custody. His legal professional, John Greven, has declined to touch upon the fees.

Penny is charged with violating the Church Arson Prevention Act, utilizing fireplace to commit a federal felony, the malicious use of explosive supplies and possessing a harmful gadget. He faces as much as 50 years in jail if he is convicted on all counts.