Michigan man Hassan Chokr pleaded guilty to federal firearms charges after threatening a Jewish daycare and attempting to purchase assault weapons despite his felony record.
At a Glance
- Hassan Chokr, who has prior felony convictions, admitted to trying to illegally purchase three semi-automatic firearms after making antisemitic threats at a Jewish daycare
- Chokr was recorded making threatening comments at Temple Beth El in Bloomfield Hills, where he targeted families and young children
- A gun store owner reported Chokr said he intended to use weapons for “God’s wrath” and lied on his background check form
- Chokr faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, with sentencing scheduled for September 24
- He has also been diagnosed with mental health disorders and faces separate ethnic intimidation charges in Oakland County
Threats Against Jewish Daycare Facility
In December 2022, Hassan Chokr drove through the parking lot of Temple Beth El in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where he harassed and made antisemitic threats toward parents and children at the Jewish daycare facility. Following this disturbing incident, Chokr attempted to purchase three semi-automatic weapons at a gun shop in Dearborn, Michigan, despite being prohibited from owning firearms due to prior felony convictions. The series of events triggered federal charges against Chokr, who has now pleaded guilty to the firearms violations.
Chokr’s actions at the synagogue were just the beginning of his troubling behavior. After harassing the families, he attempted to purchase the weapons while allegedly making statements about his intentions. According to court documents, he had also posted violent antisemitic content on social media platforms, further documenting his threatening mindset toward the Jewish community. Law enforcement officials have characterized the case as an example of how background check systems can prevent potentially dangerous individuals from acquiring firearms.
Failed Firearms Purchase Attempt
Following his threatening behavior at the Jewish facility, Chokr visited a Dearborn gun shop where he attempted to purchase three semi-automatic firearms. During this visit, the store owner overheard concerning statements that raised immediate alarms. Chokr reportedly said he intended to use the weapons for “God’s wrath” and made comments about wanting to “even the score.” These statements, combined with his recent threatening behavior, prompted heightened attention from both the store owner and authorities.
“Chokr’s attempt to purchase several deadly firearms in an apparent attempt to follow through on his menacing threats against parents and preschoolers as they walked into a place of worship represents every American’s worst nightmare. And we will not allow anyone to terrorize our Jewish neighbors. We are committed to protecting every American and their right to live and worship free of fear.”, said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
When completing the required federal firearms purchase forms, Chokr falsely claimed he had no felony convictions or pending charges. In reality, he had a 2017 felony theft conviction and was facing an assault charge at the time of his application. The federal background check system functioned as intended, revealing his criminal history and preventing the sale. This deception on the firearms application forms constitutes a separate federal offense to which Chokr has now admitted guilt.
“Hassan Chokr, of Dearborn, entered a guilty plea to a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm for his actions after he left the preschool at a synagogue.
The backstory:Chokr is accused of making antisemitic and racist threats to parents, young children and security… https://t.co/T5d1sRFaHQ
— Angela Van Der Pluym (@anjewla90) May 29, 2025
Legal Consequences and Mental Health Issues
On May 28, Chokr formally pleaded guilty to federal gun charges, which carry a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. His sentencing is scheduled for September 24. In addition to the federal case, Chokr faces two counts of ethnic intimidation filed by Oakland County prosecutors, with a court date set for June 24. Throughout legal proceedings, Chokr has displayed erratic behavior, including exposing himself to a judge during one court appearance.
Court records indicate Chokr was diagnosed in 2023 with “schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type” and “antisocial personality disorder.” Prosecutors had previously requested that Chokr receive involuntary medication to make him competent to stand trial.
The FBI Detroit Field Office has emphasized their zero tolerance for threats against any community and their commitment to protecting citizens from individuals who might act on hateful ideologies. The case highlights ongoing concerns about threats facing religious institutions and the importance of existing safeguards in firearms regulations.
