Categories: Chicago

Chicago man faces federal charges of posting violence threats online against a reproductive clinic

The man has been arrested by the police on federal criminal charges. He allegedly threatened a women’s reproductive health clinic. He posted the threats of violence online. Farhan Sheikh, 19-year-old, faced the charges of transmitting a threat. He was arrested on Friday night and appeared in the court this morning.

He appeared in an initial court hearing before US Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox. Sheikh will remain in the custody of police until the detention hearing on Tuesday, according to the remarks of Judge Cox. John R. Lausch, US Attorney for the Northern Districts of Illinois, and Jeffery S. Sallet, FBI’s Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office, announced the complaint and arrest.

Joint Terrorism Task Force of the FBI investigated the case and the Chicago Police Department provided the assistance. A complaint was filed in Chicago’s US District Court which stated that Sheikh posted the threat comments on a social media platform, iFunny, on August 13. He allegedly stated in a post, “I am done with my state and abortion laws”. He allegedly warned the people that he would slaughter them if he would find them in the clinic on August 23.

He also allegedly threatened the doctors and patients in his post. His post stated, “proceed to slaughter and murder any doctor, patient, or visitor I see in the area”. He added, “I will not back down. Consider this a warning for anyone visiting.” The complaint also stated that Sheikh wrote in his iFunny post that he posted what he meant and he would carry out what he posted.

Sheikh can be sentenced maximum of 5-years in prison on the base of the charge in the complaint. The court will impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes if he will be convicted. The advisory US Sentencing Guidelines will also be followed. A complaint is not evidence of guilt and the public should remind this. The government has the responsibility to prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Shawn Genzone

Senior writer at the Chicago Morning Star

Recent Posts

Amazon Prime refunds expanded to as much as $200

More Amazon Prime customers will qualify for automatic refunds under a revised settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, with the…

12 hours ago

Brandon Johnson Launches Chicago Reelection Bid

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson announced Sept. 15 that he will seek a second term, launching a reelection campaign centered on…

4 days ago

Phillies begin crucial playoff push vs. Nationals

The Philadelphia Phillies begin a crucial stretch in their postseason race Tuesday when they visit the Washington Nationals for the…

6 days ago

Chicago Fed Focuses on Banking and Housing

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is focusing on two major economic issues this September, with events addressing the challenges…

1 week ago

Aaron Judge returns as Yankees beat Rockies

Aaron Judge returned to the New York Yankees lineup Tuesday after a lengthy absence, and while the three-time MVP had…

2 weeks ago

Three Belugas Die in Eight Days at Shedd Aquarium

Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is investigating the deaths of three beluga whales over eight days, marking the first major crisis in…

2 weeks ago

This website uses cookies.