A Man Faces Charges for Attacking an Elderly Muslim

A man from Morgan Hill is now in trouble with the law. He is accused of pushing an elderly Muslim man after an evening prayer service at a community center in March. The man, Mark Allen, is 59 years old. He is facing a misdemeanor hate crime charge. This means he is accused of using force and threats against someone because of their religion. The victim was 76 years old. He was leaving the prayer service when Allen allegedly made anti-Muslim comments. Then, Allen pushed the victim in the chest. Many people in the community were dressed in traditional Muslim clothing. This incident has caused fear and concern among the Muslim community. The District Attorney's office takes hate crimes very seriously. They see this as a crime against three groups: the man targeted, the Islamic religious community, and all Americans who deserve fair and respectful treatment under the law. If found guilty, Allen could face up to one year in prison. The judge might also order him to do community service or take classes about the Muslim community. The incident happened shortly before 9:30 p. m. on March 7. A man and his daughter were leaving the mosque when they saw Allen walking toward them. The daughter described Allen as agitated and talking to himself. She thought she heard him say something negative about Muslims. Allen allegedly pushed the victim and another man without any provocation. The victim did not get injured, but he felt fear when Allen approached in an aggressive mood. Allen allegedly made more aggressive comments as more people exited the building. He asked, "What are you going to do about it? " Another man reported that Allen asked him if he was Palestinian or part of Hamas. An officer who spoke to Allen that night noted that he was slurring his words and had an unsteady gait. Allen claimed he had been drinking and could not remember the incident. After a warrant was issued for his arrest, Allen turned himself in to the Morgan Hill Police Department. He posted $25, 000 bail and is set to appear in court for his arraignment. The Council on American-Islamic Relations welcomed the filing of the charges. They see it as a step towards supporting the Muslim community's safety and well-being. The mayor of Morgan Hill also issued a statement, reminding everyone that discrimination has no place in their community.