Arizona Man Convicted of Hate Crimes for Targeting Christian Churches with Hoax Bomb Threats
Zimnako Salah, 45, was found guilty of hate crimes and hoax bomb threats, with sentencing set for July 18, 2025, where he faces up to six years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
- Zimnako Salah was convicted by a federal jury for planting a hoax bomb at a Christian church in Roseville, California, with the intent to obstruct the free exercise of religion.
- The jury determined Salah’s actions were motivated by religious bias, classifying the offenses as hate crimes.
- Between September and November 2023, Salah targeted four churches across Arizona, California, and Colorado, planting backpacks at two and being intercepted at two others.
- Evidence presented at trial revealed Salah had been building a functional bomb and consuming extremist propaganda, including ISIS videos and searches for 'Infidels dying.'
- The case, investigated by the FBI and local law enforcement, underscores federal efforts to combat hate crimes and protect religious freedom.
U.S. Department of Justice 
Townhall 
The Denver Post 
