A bail hearing for a man accused of issuing a bomb threat against the U.S. Consulate in Halifax was postponed for the third time on Friday as the defendant’s legal representative sought more information about the prosecution’s case. Ali Assakereh, a resident of Halifax, faced charges of making threats and creating public mischief after authorities alleged he placed a propane tank and flammable substances in his car near the consulate.
His legal aid attorney, Lonny Queripel, expressed that the ongoing police inquiry had complicated their efforts to secure bail for Assakereh, who has been in custody on minor charges since his arrest. Previous bail hearings scheduled for earlier in the week were also adjourned. Queripel highlighted the lack of clarity from the Crown regarding potential additional charges, emphasizing the need to understand the full scope of the accusations before proposing a bail plan.
During the brief court session on Friday, the 54-year-old accused remained in a holding cell while Judge Del Atwood granted the request for an adjournment until August 19. Queripel informed the judge that his client had agreed to remain in custody for the time being. However, he hinted at a possible shift in strategy if Assakereh continued to be held on minor charges beyond the upcoming week.
The lawyer mentioned that despite his client’s frustration with the pace of the legal proceedings, Assakereh remained cooperative and willing to allow time for the situation to be addressed appropriately. Communication with Assakereh, who primarily speaks Farsi, required an interpreter’s assistance. At Assakereh’s residence, his wife confirmed the relationship but indicated a language barrier prevented her from discussing the charges.
Neighbour Dhruv Mashruwala recounted police searches at Assakereh’s home and the assistance provided to Assakereh’s children during the investigation. While acknowledging police presence near the residence in the past, the neighbours expressed surprise at the recent events. Assakereh’s previous legal history was mentioned, detailing past assault charges that had been dismissed.
The bomb threat incident was reported by the consulate, leading to a swift police response and the subsequent arrest of Assakereh. Following an evaluation by explosives experts, the evacuation orders were lifted once it was determined that there was no threat to public safety from the substances found in Assakereh’s vehicle.
In closing, the bail hearing’s adjournment to gather more case details underscores the complexity of the legal process for the accused individual, with ongoing uncertainties regarding potential charges and the need for a comprehensive bail strategy.
