BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) – A series of possible targeted crimes against people from the local Muslim community has resulted in the arrest of three people.
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn and Buffalo Police Captain Jeff Rinaldo on Thursday announced the arrest and indictment of Anthony Cole and two minors this week on armed robbery and other crimes.
Flynn said there is no evidence right now of any racial slurs used by the three against any members of the Muslim community. The DA said a racial slur could lead to hate crime charges and said if there’s overwhelming circumstantial evidence of targeted attacks against Muslims, then hate crime charges could be levied.
“Members of any community…any religion, creed, color, or race, if your neighborhood is being targeted because of your race and religion, I and Commissioner Lockwood and Jeff (Rinaldo) have zero tolerance for this,” Flynn said.
The arrests also highlight the recently passed “Raise the Age” legislation. Flynn said that if the individuals had a weapon or if the victims were hurt, the two boys could be tried as adults and is pushing for that.
Cole will return to court on Monday for a felony hearing. He faces a maximum of 25 years in prison. The two boys were arraigned in youth court.