A man from northern Virginia was found guilty of a hate crime after being apprehended at a Sunday service of a megachurch under suspicion of planning a mass shooting, as stated by federal prosecutors.
Rui Jiang from Falls Church was convicted by a federal jury of attempting to obstruct churchgoers’ freedom of religious beliefs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia announced that Jiang’s actions included using a dangerous weapon with the intent to kill. Additionally, he was found guilty of transmitting threats online and violating firearms regulations.
Authorities revealed that Jiang had plotted to assault members of Park Valley Church in Haymarket in September 2023. His arrest took place during church services when he was discovered with a handgun and other weapons, following a tip-off from a former girlfriend who alerted police about alarming social media activity.
Jiang, a recent participant in the church’s activities, expressed anger towards both God and men, whom he blamed for impeding his romantic pursuits with women. He left a “final letter,” declaring his intention to exclusively target men while apologizing for any women accidentally harmed.
After being taken into custody, Jiang admitted to police that he was furious with God but denied intentions of murder, according to legal documents. He confirmed carrying a weapon in the church, citing his concealed carry permit and regular habit of being armed.
Initially, Jiang faced charges in the state court, but federal authorities assumed control of the case. Proceedings were paused after a competency evaluation was requested, yet the judge confirmed in July that Jiang was fit for trial.
Law enforcement officials praised the swift collaboration among multiple police departments across Maryland and Virginia in apprehending Jiang prior to any violent acts. Church security had also noted his peculiar actions and had begun questioning him.
Jiang now confronts a mandatory sentence ranging from five years to life imprisonment, with sentencing scheduled for June 18. While federal sentences generally fall short of the maximum penalties, Jiang could face substantial jail time.
The federal public defender’s office, representing Jiang, refrained from commenting on Friday.
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