Police in Dearborn, Michigan, have arrested an individual in connection to an online threat made towards Palestinian Americans in the Detroit suburb. The threat, which was posted on social media, was brought to the attention of the police through an anonymous tip on Wednesday. Dearborn Chief of Police Issa Shahin stated that after a thorough investigation, the individual was apprehended at their residence in Farmington Hills on Thursday afternoon. The arrest was made on probable cause of using a computer or electronic device to commit a crime.
Law enforcement agencies across the country have increased security measures due to concerns of potential security threats related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In Dearborn, where the largest Muslim population per capita in the U.S. resides, Chief Shahin confirmed that police presence has been heightened at places of worship and schools. He also stated that there are no known additional credible threats at this time, but law enforcement remains in close contact with federal, state, and local partners.
Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, the city’s first Muslim mayor, expressed gratitude for the swift response of the police department and emphasized the city’s cultural diversity. Mayor Hammoud highlighted the strong interfaith relationships that have been fostered among neighbors of different faiths in Metro Detroit over the past century.
The nature of the online threat and the identity of the arrested individual have not been disclosed. Chief Shahin mentioned that the individual remains in custody while the investigation continues. Further information has been requested from the Dearborn Police Department.
In anticipation of potential protests in support of Palestinians, police departments in major cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, and the U.S. Capitol Police, have enhanced security measures. However, no credible threats have been detected in these cities.
