A Michigan man with a history of felony convictions, Hassan Chokr, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm after a disturbing incident involving an antisemitic tirade at a synagogue and an attempt to illegally purchase multiple firearms.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr., joined by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI’s Detroit Division.
Chokr’s plea stems from a December 2022 incident where he aggressively targeted Jewish parents and their preschool children at a Bloomfield Hills synagogue. According to court documents, Chokr, 37, drove through the synagogue’s parking lot, yelling profanities and attacking their support for Israel as families walked into the building.
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After being asked to leave the synagogue, Chokr then drove to a gun store in his city of Dearborn. While inside the store, he possessed and handled a Landor Arms 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, a Del-ton 5.56mm rifle, and a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol. He held each firearm, pointed them, and even pulled the trigger.
Upon deciding to purchase the three firearms, Chokr attempted to circumvent the law by falsely claiming he had never been convicted of a felony offense – a claim directly contradicted by his prior felony conviction.
While awaiting the results of his background check, Chokr chillingly indicated he would “even the score” and use the guns for “God’s wrath.” His attempt to purchase the firearms was ultimately denied following the background check.
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United States Attorney Gorgon emphatically stated, “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.” Gorgon added, “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 now faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years’ imprisonment. He is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey on September 24, 2025.
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