Virginia Man Convicted of Hate Crime in Foiled Church Shooting

Rui Jiang was found guilty of attempting to obstruct religious worship, online threats, and firearms violations after being apprehended armed at a church in 2023.

• Rui Jiang, 35, was convicted by a federal jury of attempting to obstruct religious worship with a dangerous weapon and intent to kill, as well as transmitting online threats and a firearms violation.
• Jiang was arrested at Park Valley Church in Haymarket, Virginia, during Sunday services in September 2023, armed with a handgun, ammunition, and additional rounds in his car.
• Authorities acted quickly after a former girlfriend reported Jiang's disturbing social media posts, which included threats and a signed letter detailing his intent to target men at the church.
• Police and church security worked together to apprehend Jiang before any violence occurred, highlighting effective interagency cooperation between Maryland and Virginia law enforcement.
• Jiang faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison, with sentencing scheduled for June 18, 2025.

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U.S. Department of Justice U.S. Department of Justice