Confusion in Halifax courtroom over U.S. consulate bomb threat case

The man accused of threatening to bomb the U.S. consulate in Halifax appeared in court via video link on Thursday, but the hearing was quickly disrupted. Krysten Stevens, the legal aid lawyer for 54-year-old Ali Assakereh, informed the judge that Assakereh wished to be tried by a judge alone in Nova Scotia Supreme Court and would plead not guilty.

However, Assakereh, who was listening to the proceedings through a telephone line, held up a handwritten note, causing further confusion. Judge Barbara Beach ruled that Assakereh and his interpreter, who was relaying the proceedings in Farsi, must appear in person to prevent further misunderstandings. Assakereh was arrested on August 10 for allegedly placing a propane tank and flammable liquids in his car near the consulate, leading to evacuations in downtown Halifax.

The explosives expert determined the contents posed no threat, and all evacuation orders were lifted later that day. Assakereh faces charges of mischief, uttering threats, and a charge under the Criminal Code that prohibits threats against internationally protected people, including diplomats. If convicted, the Crown claims the latter charge could result in a life sentence.

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