Morgan Hill Man Charged with Hate Crime After Attack on Muslim Worshippers
According to the Morgan Hill Police Department, Mark Allen, a local resident, voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement in connection with the incident, which occurred on the evening of March 7 at the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Bay Area chapter, stated that Allen confronted multiple members of the South Valley Islamic Community Center after evening prayers.
Witnesses reported that he shouted anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian slurs and allegedly assaulted a 76-year-old man who was present with his daughter. The victim, according to officials, was wearing traditional prayer attire when he was pushed, nearly falling before others intervened.
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Following a police investigation, the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and filed a hate crime charge against Allen. If convicted, he could face up to one year in jail.
Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen, in comments to CBS News Bay Area, emphasized the importance of safeguarding diversity. “When someone targets another based on religion or ethnicity, we must respond firmly to protect our community’s fabric,” he said.
CAIR attorney Bismah Jaffer welcomed the prosecution, calling it an important step toward supporting the safety and dignity of the local Muslim community.
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The mosque’s board also issued a statement expressing gratitude to the District Attorney’s Office and affirming that no one should fear for their safety during worship.
Morgan Hill Mayor Mark Turner reiterated the city’s stance against hate, stating that all residents, including Muslims, should feel safe and valued.
Allen is expected to appear in court for arraignment on May 30.
Source: Agencies
