Cornell Ex-Student Sentenced to 21 Months for Anti-Semitic Threats Amid Gaza Conflict

A former Cornell University student, Patrick Dai, 21 months in prison for threats against Jewish people after Gaza war. Former Cornell student sentenced for hate crime. Judge cites campus disruption, hate crime, and mental health. Defense argues about medication and pro-Israel sentiment.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

In April, Patrick Dai pleaded guilty to charges of posting threats to kill or injure another person using interstate communications. This led to his sentencing in federal court, where he received a 21-month prison term and an additional three years of supervised release, as per the decision of Judge Brenda Sannes. The judge highlighted the significant disruption to campus activities caused by Dai's actions, categorizing them as a hate crime. However, she also considered the defendant's diagnosis of autism, his struggles with mental health, and his history of non-violent behavior.