Hassan Chokr, a convicted felon from Dearborn, Michigan, has admitted to illegally possessing firearms following an antisemitic outburst directed at Jewish parents and their preschool children at a synagogue in Bloomfield Hills. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr., with Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit Division.
In December 2022, Chokr, aged 37, was involved in an incident where he drove through the parking lot of a Jewish synagogue, shouting profanities and criticizing support for Israel as parents escorted their children into the building. After being asked to leave the premises, Chokr proceeded to a gun store in Dearborn where he handled several firearms: a Landor Arms 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, a Del-ton 5.56mm rifle, and a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol. He falsely claimed eligibility to purchase these weapons by denying his prior felony conviction during the background check process.
While waiting for the results of this check, Chokr allegedly expressed intentions to “even the score” and use the guns for “God’s wrath.” However, his purchase attempt was denied once his felony record was revealed.
United States Attorney Gorgon emphasized the federal government’s commitment to countering antisemitism: “The federal government must do everything in its power to stem the rising tide of antisemitism. 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.”
Chokr is scheduled for sentencing by United States District Court Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey on September 24, 2025. He could face up to 15 years in prison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation into this case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Carlson.
