Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, a Jordanian citizen residing in Orlando, Florida, has been charged with four counts of threatening to use explosives and one count of destruction of an energy facility. Court records indicate that Hnaihen began smashing the windows of several businesses in the Orlando area and leaving threatening letters, claiming that he intended to destroy or explode businesses that supported Israel. He also attacked a Florida solar panel farm, causing $700,000 in damages by cutting wires so close to the panels that they could not be repaired.
Prosecutors describe Hnaihen’s actions as premeditated and sophisticated, pointing out that he permanently decommissioned panels at the solar farm whenever he cut a wire. Hnaihen attempted to purchase a firearm and lied about his US citizenship status, but he was unable to complete the purchase when his lack of citizenship was discovered during a background check. Prosecutors have warned the judge overseeing the case that Hnaihen’s threats and destructive behavior have been escalating in recent weeks, indicating a potential danger to the community.
In a detention memo, prosecutors revealed that employees at an industrial propane gas depot in Orlando found an identical copy of Hnaihen’s threatening letter posted outside the facility two days before his arrest. While no damage was found at that time, operations at the facility were disrupted as a hazmat team cleared the scene. Fingerprint analysis is still pending, but prosecutors argue that this incident further highlights the seriousness of Hnaihen’s threats and actions.
Hnaihen remains behind bars pending a resolution in the case, facing charges related to the destruction of the solar panel farm and the threats made against businesses in Florida. The court system is taking his alleged actions seriously, with prosecutors highlighting the sophistication and premeditation involved in his attacks. Hnaihen’s attempt to purchase a firearm and his lies about his citizenship further underscore the potential danger he poses, especially given the escalating nature of his threats in recent weeks.
Concerns about Hnaihen’s escalating behavior have prompted prosecutors to request that he remain in custody, citing the potential threat he poses to the community. His actions have caused significant damage to businesses and energy facilities in Florida, leading to disruptions and potential hazards. The court will need to carefully consider the evidence and arguments presented by prosecutors as they work to address the charges against Hnaihen and ensure the safety of the community in Orlando and beyond.
