LAKEWOOD, New Jersey – A man from Ocean County has pleaded guilty to committing hate crimes by violently attacking members of the Orthodox Jewish community in and around Lakewood. Dion Marsh attempted to kill and injure five Jewish individuals in 2022, according to police. He is reported to have run over four people in a stolen vehicle and stabbed one of them in the chest.
U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger expressed his concern over the prevalence of hate-fueled violence, stating that it is a sad reality across the state and the nation. Sellinger emphasized the importance of respecting and protecting the civil rights of individuals, regardless of their appearance, religious beliefs, background, or sexual orientation.
The case has prompted discussions about the need for increased awareness and action to combat hate crimes. Community leaders have called for greater support and protection for marginalized groups, highlighting the broader impact of such violent incidents on society as a whole.
Marsh is set to be sentenced on June 11, marking a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims and the affected community. Going forward, efforts to address the underlying causes of hate crimes and to promote inclusivity and tolerance are expected to remain at the forefront of public discourse in the area.