Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening Muslim Organization in Michigan
CANTON TOWNSHIP, MI (CBS DETROIT) — Michael Shapiro, a 72-year-old man from West Palm Beach, Florida, has pleaded guilty to federal charges after threatening members of the Council on American-Islamic Relations Michigan Chapter (CAIR-MI). In December 2023, Shapiro made a series of menacing phone calls to CAIR-MI, leaving overtly hostile voicemails that included phrases such as "I’m going to kill you bastards" directed at the organization.
The first threatening call was received on December 8, followed by two additional calls on December 14 and 15, during which Shapiro reiterated his intentions to harm members of the Muslim community. Prosecutors indicated that these threats were motivated by religious bias, as Shapiro acknowledged targeting CAIR due to the perceived religion and national origin of its members.
U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison emphasized that no individual should instill fear or threaten violence against an entire community. "Today’s conviction should send a strong message that those who do so will be investigated, identified, and aggressively prosecuted," she stated.
Shapiro initially faced three counts of transmitting threats across state lines but ultimately pleaded guilty to one count. The FBI’s commitment to combat hate and threats fueled by bias was highlighted by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, who noted that this case underscores the serious legal consequences for such hate-driven actions. Both the FBI and the Canton Police Department worked closely on the investigation, reflecting the importance of community support in addressing hate crimes.
As communities and law enforcement remain vigilant, this case serves as a reaffirmation of the need for justice and safety for all members of the diverse population in Michigan.
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