Ali Assakereh, a 54-year-old from Halifax, faces a new charge described by a Crown prosecutor as an act of terrorism. This charge was brought forth during his recent bail hearing at Halifax provincial court following an incident that resulted in a downtown lockdown. The new charge accuses Assakereh of threatening an internationally protected person, with the U.S. Consulate property falling under this definition according to the Criminal Code.
Federal Crown prosecutor Lee-Ann Conrod emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating that it constitutes a terrorist activity under the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of five years upon conviction. Initially, Assakereh was charged by Halifax Regional Police with uttering threats and public mischief.
Despite several bail hearing adjournments since his arrest on August 10, Assakereh remains in custody until his next court appearance. The latest charge alters the conditions for obtaining bail, requiring the accused to prove why they should be released from custody, known as a reverse onus situation, as highlighted by Conrod.
Assakereh made his first in-person court appearance, sporting a grey sweater and sweatpants and displaying a calm demeanor. His attempt to address the court was halted by Judge Ann Marie Simmons, who advised him to communicate through his legal counsel. Bernie Thibault, Assakereh’s legal aid lawyer, was not available for immediate comment following the hearing.
The charges against Assakereh stem from an incident on August 10 when Halifax Regional Police discovered a suspicious vehicle near the U.S. Consulate containing a propane tank and flammable liquids. This discovery led to a downtown lockdown, causing disruptions and evacuations in the area. Assakereh was apprehended in the Clayton Park neighborhood shortly after the vehicle was found, prompting further evacuations.
The lockdown was lifted later that day after authorities determined there was no ongoing threat to public safety. The case continues to unfold as Assakereh awaits further legal proceedings.