A 21-year-old junior at Cornell University has been charged in connection with making threats of a mass shooting and antisemitic violence on campus. Patrick Dai, the accused student, was federally charged after an investigation by the Joint Terrorism Task Force. The threats, which targeted a Jewish area at Cornell University, were made on an online discussion board and included calls for the deaths of Jewish people and the intention to bring an assault rifle to campus.
The Cornell University administration responded swiftly by dispatching campus police to protect the Jewish center on campus. The university has expressed gratitude to the FBI for their quick identification and apprehension of the suspect. If convicted, Dai could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a supervised release term of up to 3 years.
The incident has caused concern among students, who now realize that threats came from within the campus community. The university is calling for a full and transparent investigation into Dai’s connections, if any, with any groups or individuals who may have known about the threats. Professor William A. Jacobson from Cornell Law School expressed hopes for further information to be released regarding Dai’s background and any potential political activities.
Cornell University Vice President for University Relations, Joel M. Malina, issued a statement condemning the antisemitic threats and expressing gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts in protecting the campus community. The university reassured students, faculty, and staff that it will continue to provide assistance to law enforcement as the case progresses. Cornell Police will maintain heightened security measures on campus to ensure the safety of the community.
The incident has shocked and outraged the Cornell University community, with support and solidarity expected to continue in the days ahead. The university remains committed to prosecuting these threats to the fullest extent of the law.
