A Texas man has been sentenced to prison for committing a hate crime and setting fire to an Austin synagogue. Franklin Sechriest, 19, of San Marcos, Texas, pleaded guilty in federal court to arson and a hate crime in connection with the October 2021 fire at Congregation Beth Israel. On Wednesday, Sechriest was sentenced to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $470,000 in restitution.
The sentencing comes amid a surge in antisemitic incidents across the nation. The U.S. Department of Justice highlighted the significance of holding Sechriest accountable for the antisemitic attack on Congregation Beth Israel, stating that such acts of violence have no place in society. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division emphasized the importance of aggressively prosecuting antisemitic violence.
According to court documents, Sechriest admitted to scouting out the synagogue as a target three days before the fire. Surveillance footage showed him carrying a five-gallon container and toilet paper as he walked towards the sanctuary on the night of the arson. Shortly after, a fire erupted, and Sechriest was seen fleeing the scene. The fire was promptly reported, and the Austin Fire Department extinguished it.
Sechriest’s journal entries further confirmed his hatred of Jews and his intention to commit the arson. He actively monitored media reports to track the progress of the investigation. The sentencing aims to send a strong message that such hate-fueled violence and targeting of places of worship will not be tolerated.
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas expressed the commitment to combat acts of hate and seek justice for the victims. The rise in antisemitic prejudice has prompted increased awareness and efforts to address this issue both in the U.S. and globally.
The case of Franklin Sechriest serves as a reminder of the importance of combating antisemitism and standing against hate-fueled violence. The justice system’s response is a step towards ensuring the safety and security of all communities, regardless of their religious background.
