Halifax bomb threat suspect could face life in prison on terror charge: Crown

A 54-year-old man, Ali Assakereh, who was arrested in connection with a bomb threat made against the U.S. Consulate in Halifax, faces a potential life sentence on a terrorism charge, according to federal Crown prosecutor Lee-Ann Conrod. Assakereh is currently charged with uttering threats and public mischief, but the prosecutor has given notice that the new charge could be increased to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment due to its classification as a terrorism offense under Section 2 of the Criminal Code.

Assakereh appeared in a Halifax courtroom for a bail decision hearing, which was later adjourned until Friday. Police found the suspect's vehicle and a bag they considered suspicious near the vehicle on Aug. 10, leading to a shutdown of surrounding streets and the deployment of the bomb disposal unit. Assakereh was arrested the following day and charged on Aug.

11. The charges against him can be heard as either summary convictions or by indictment, with the latter leading to a potential maximum sentence of up to five years per count. Conrod anticipates the bail hearing to take place on Friday, though the process may extend due to the complexity of Assakereh's defense.