After a stunning attack left a Black man critically injured, a Minnesota man is being charged with federal hate crimes.#Minnesota #Crime #News #Belle Plain, Minnesota
A 35-year-old man from Belle Plaine, Minnesota, is currently being charged with federal hate crimes after he violently attacked a Black guy outside a pub about a year ago.
Justin Kudla, who was previously accused at the state level, was indicted, according to Minnesota U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger. For his claimed conduct on February 3, 2024, Kudla is now facing one count of interference with federally protected activity and one count of hate crime.
Confrontation Escalates to Violence
The event happened on Belle Plaine’s Meridian Street early in the morning. Charges state that the victim was confronted after Kudla used a racial slur. According to reports, Kudla struck the man in the face as hostilities increased, rendering him unconscious on the ground.
When a friend discovered the sufferer drifting in and out of consciousness the next day, it became clear how badly injured he was. He had potentially fatal injuries, such as cerebral hemorrhage and skull fractures, and was sent to the hospital immediately.
Witnesses Report Prior Harassment
Witnesses have described Kudla’s actions prior to the attack in a concerning manner. During the altercation, one witness—who worked at Huck’s Shipwreck Saloon—reported hearing Kudla use the N-word.
Kudla was removed out of the Red Door Bar earlier that evening for being drunk and unruly, according to another witness who worked there.
This same witness claimed that Kudla had verbally abused the victim using an anti-gay term and a racial slur just weeks before to the incident.
Facing Serious Consequences
A detention hearing is scheduled for Thursday after Kudla’s appearance in U.S. District Court on Tuesday. He may spend up to ten years in federal prison if found guilty.
As prosecutors work to hold Kudla accountable for his acts and seek justice for the victim, the case represents a crucial step in combating hate-motivated violence.
CONNECTED TOPICS: Minnesota Crime
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