A portrayal of courtroom proceedings related to a federal firearms charge.
Hassan Chokr, a 37-year-old Dearborn resident, has pleaded guilty to federal firearms charges after making threats at Temple Beth El and attempting to purchase firearms. His actions raised concerns regarding public safety and anti-Semitic violence. Chokr could face up to 15 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for September. The case highlights the increasing need to address anti-Semitism and ensure community safety.
Dearborn, Michigan – Hassan Chokr, a 37-year-old resident of Dearborn, pleaded guilty to a federal firearms charge on May 30, 2025. This charge is linked to a significant incident that occurred in December 2022, during which Chokr made threats against visitors at Temple Beth El in Bloomfield Hills, shouting anti-Semitic slurs and threatening violence.
If sentenced, Chokr could face up to 15 years in prison for this charge. His guilty plea comes as federal authorities continue to address and combat anti-Semitic threats and violence against the Jewish community across the country.
Dramatic events unfolded at Temple Beth El when Chokr hurled threats, proclaiming, “Damn Israel and the Jews!” and “You will all die!” at security personnel and parents gathered outside the temple. These threats raised alarms about public safety, particularly concerning children and families who were in the vicinity.
In addition to the threats made at the temple, Chokr attempted to purchase three firearms—a shotgun, a semi-automatic pistol, and an AR-15-style assault rifle—from a gun store in Dearborn. His purchase was denied after he failed a criminal background check. While at the store, he claimed he intended to use the firearms to “deliver God’s wrath” and “settle scores.”
Evidence collected from the store shows Chokr handling various firearms and pictures of him with the weapons have been released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Moreover, it was revealed that Chokr lied on the federal firearms purchase form, inaccurately stating that he had never been convicted of a felony and had not been committed to a mental health institution.
At the time of his attempted gun purchase, Chokr was out on bond while awaiting trial for an unrelated incident where he assaulted a police officer in 2020. His criminal history consists of multiple felony convictions, in addition to an order prohibiting him from purchasing firearms as of 2021.
Due to his mental health issues, including a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and antisocial personality disorder, there were concerns regarding his mental competency, which delayed the filing of federal firearms charges against him. After receiving treatment at a mental health facility, Chokr was eventually deemed competent to stand trial.
Hassan Chokr is currently in custody without bond following his arrest. Sentencing for the federal firearms charge is scheduled for September 24 in the U.S. District Court in Detroit. Additionally, Chokr faces local charges concerning ethnic intimidation and making anti-Semitic threats related to his actions at Temple Beth El.
Federal prosecutors are expected to present substantial evidence, including video and photo documentation from the gun store, to support their case against Chokr. Authorities have highlighted the importance of these actions in the context of a troubling rise in anti-Semitism and the need to ensure the protection of vulnerable communities.
As the case proceeds, U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. emphasized the commitment of the government to combating the increasing tide of anti-Semitic acts. Special Agent Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI noted that Chokr’s behavior demonstrates a reckless disregard for public safety and poses a significant threat to the community.
The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the consequence of Chokr’s actions and serve as a critical moment in addressing anti-Semitic rhetoric and threats in society.
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