threats

Man to Plead Guilty to Threatening 2 Boston Mosques

Patrick Keogan of Wilmington was arrested after posting threatening images on social media the day after the terrorist attacks in Paris

A convicted Massachusetts felon charged with threatening to burn two mosques the day after the 2015 terror attacks in Paris is expected to plead guilty on Tuesday.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for Massachusetts said Patrick Keogan of Wilmington will plead guilty in federal court in Boston.

Keogan was arrested after posting threatening images on social media the day after the terrorist attacks in Paris left 130 people dead and 360 others hurt. ISIS claimed responsibility.

He admitted to the FBI that he sent posts to the Facebook pages of the Islamic Society of Boston and the Islamic Center of NE University showing a picture of a burning mosque and the words "Burn Your Local Mosque" And "hello scumbags" alongside a smiley face emoji.

Investigators also found posts on Keogan's Facebook profile condoning the burning of mosques dating back to 2013.

His attorney had argued that there was a fine line between free speech under the First Amendment and threatening.

Authorities say Keogan also unlawfully possessed ammunition.

The prosecutor pointed to a history of threats and violent conduct of which Keogan has been convicted, as well as the presence of more than 40 guns and ammunition in his home, as evidence that he is a dangerous man.

Contact Us