Cornell student Patrick Dai threatened to ‘behead any Jewish babies’ in university online site

A 21-year-old Cornell University student, identified as Patrick Dai, has been arrested and charged with making violent threats against the university’s Jewish community. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman announced the arrest, indicating that Dai faces a federal criminal complaint for posting threats to kill or injure others using interstate communications.

The complaint outlines the alarming nature of Dai’s threats, which were posted to the Cornell section of an online discussion site. These messages included calls for the deaths of Jewish individuals and even explicitly mentioned a threat to “shoot up” the 104 West dining hall, known for catering predominantly to Kosher diets. This dining hall is located next to the Cornell Jewish Center, which offers accommodations for Cornell students.

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In another post, Dai allegedly threatened violence against Jewish males, females, and even babies. His posts included threats to “stab,” “slit the throat,” “rape and throw off a cliff,” and “behead” Jewish individuals. He also stated his intention to “bring an assault rifle to campus and shoot” Jewish people.

The charge brought against Dai carries a potential maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a supervised release term of up to three years. Dai is expected to make his initial court appearance before a United States Magistrate Judge in federal court in Syracuse, New York.

The investigation into this case is being led by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, in collaboration with the New York State Police, Cornell University Police Department, and the Ithaca Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York is responsible for prosecuting the case, in partnership with the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice.

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In response to this concerning situation, Joel M. Malina, vice president for university relations at Cornell University, expressed gratitude to the FBI for their swift actions and the law enforcement agencies involved in the case. The university condemns the antisemitic threats and stands committed to supporting the needs of its campus community while ensuring that the case proceeds through prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. Cornell University will maintain heightened security on campus to safeguard its students, faculty, and staff.