Veteran Pleads Guilty to Vandalizing Satanic Statue at Iowa Capitol

Michael Cassidy's plea deal avoids hate crime charges and jail time, resulting in probation and restitution.

Michael Cassidy admitted to dismantling the Baphomet statue displayed by the Satanic Temple of Iowa.
Prosecutors dropped felony hate crime charges in exchange for a misdemeanor plea.
Cassidy will serve two years probation, pay an $855 civil penalty, and cover restitution costs.
The statue's destruction drew criticism from political leaders and sparked a legal battle over religious displays.
The plea agreement includes a victim-offender dialogue if requested by the Satanic Temple.