Florida Man Charged With Hate Crime Arson After Setting Chabad Classroom Ablaze Before Rosh Hashanah
PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — A Florida man has been arrested and charged with arson and hate crime enhancements after setting fire to a children’s classroom at the Chabad of Charlotte County just days before Rosh Hashanah.
Suspect Identified by His Mother
Police said Blake Richard Hoover, 31, was arrested Monday after his mother reported concerns that he may have been involved. She told investigators he returned home on the night of the blaze with an empty spray paint can and gas can that had been missing earlier.
Investigators found fuel traces inside and outside the classroom window and the letter “J” spray painted in three locations on the building.
Court documents also reveal Hoover’s mother told police that he had expressed growing hatred toward Jewish and LGBTQ people in recent years.
Law Enforcement Response
“This type of crime will not be tolerated in Sarasota County,” wrote Sheriff Kurt Hoffman in a statement on social media. “Any criminal activity directed at religious schools or institutions will be met with the full force and capability of this agency.”
The fire, which occurred Friday night, was quickly contained and no injuries were reported.
Charges and Possible Penalties
Hoover has been charged with:
- Arson
- Criminal Mischief
- Hate Crime Enhancements
If convicted, Hoover faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in federal prison, according to the U.S. District Attorney’s Office of the Middle District of Florida.
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