Charges Filed Against Illinois Man in Hate Crime Attack on Jewish Students

Authorities in Illinois have charged a man in connection with a violent hate crime targeting two Jewish students at DePaul University. The incident occurred last year, prompting widespread concern among the community about safety and prejudice on college campuses.

Details of the Incident

Adam Erkan, 20, is facing multiple felony charges. These include two counts of hate crime and two counts of aggravated battery resulting in serious bodily harm. According to prosecutors, Erkan attacked students Max Long and Michael Kaminsky while they were peacefully advocating for Israel on the DePaul campus in Chicago on November 6.

Investigation and Arrest

Following the attack, authorities launched a search for a second suspect. Surveillance footage played a crucial role in identifying Erkan, as it showed him fleeing the scene in a 2011 Silver Toyota RAV-4. Erkan’s father reportedly helped police identify his son after seeing the footage.

Details of the Assault

As per police reports, Erkan approached Long while concealing his face and shouting antisemitic slurs. A second assailant then struck Long from behind. When Kaminsky attempted to intervene, he became the target of the attackers as well. The violent nature of the incident left Long unconscious, resulting in a brain injury, while Kaminsky suffered a fractured wrist that required surgical intervention.

Community Response to the Attack

The Cook County Prosecutor’s Office and the Chicago Police Department have not commented publicly on the case yet. Long expressed relief upon hearing about Erkan’s arrest, stating he felt safer when surrounded by his military team during his service in Gaza than on his own college campus.

Legal Proceedings

Erkan was arrested outside his residence earlier this week and had his first court appearance on Thursday. The judge mandated that he be held without bail as he awaits trial. Legal experts note that maintaining Erkan in custody may prevent further threats to the Jewish community.

Statements from DePaul University

In a statement to the media, DePaul University officials expressed their gratitude towards law enforcement for swiftly capturing the suspect. They firmly condemned acts of hate and violence, asserting that such behavior has no place in their community. Their message was clear—they stand in solidarity with all those affected by this heinous act.

Legal Action by the Victims

In a related development, Long and Kaminsky, with the help of The Lawfare Project, have filed a lawsuit against DePaul University. They allege that the university has allowed antisemitic rhetoric to foster an unsafe environment on campus. This legal action aims to address the broader issues of hate and discrimination within educational institutions.

Looking Ahead: Expectations for Justice

Gerard Filitti, Senior Counsel for The Lawfare Project, emphasized the necessity for rigorous prosecution of hate crimes. He voiced expectations that the State Attorney’s Office would handle the case with the seriousness it demands, reflecting on the coordinated and planned nature of the attack. Filitti also stated confidence that the second attacker would soon be apprehended.

Impact of the Attack on Jewish Students

The incident has raised alarms about the rising tide of antisemitism—an issue that authorities and educators must address comprehensively. The heightened fears among Jewish students and community members present a call to action for both institutions and law enforcement.

Conclusion: A Call for Solidarity and Justice

The events surrounding this violent hate crime serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing marginalized communities. As DePaul University and the broader public grapple with these issues, it is crucial to foster an inclusive environment that condemns all forms of hate and discrimination. The legal proceedings against Adam Erkan affirm a commitment to justice and the protection of vulnerable communities.

The path ahead must be one of unity, understanding, and action. Communities must come together to challenge hate and support those who advocate for peace and understanding across varying perspectives.

Fox News’ Max Bacall and Mike Tobin contributed to this report.