A Northridge man has openly admitted to federal charges of stalking and the harrowing act of threatening to launch a mass shooting at synagogues, a menacing spree that targeted both Jewish and Asian American communities. Andre Morrow Lackner, 35, pleaded guilty to these chilling charges, acknowledging his role in a 14-month campaign of hate.

From June 2021 to October 2022, Lackner terrorized a victim through a series of text messages, unleashing anti-Semitic and racist commentary. He asserted that he desired to "see every single Jew exterminated from this earth" and notably vowed to "to openly start more Asian hate" targeting Asian Americans, according to court documents.

Lackner's messages were not just threats but weapons that placed the victim in constant fear for her life and the safety of her family. In the texts, Lackner once chillingly asked the victim if she wanted to "celebrate the next synagogue shooting?" and ominously warned, "I will make sure I kill a Jew before I leave this Earth." Such words, which have been detailed by authorities, indeed reflect the power words hold to instill terror.

In the face of this hatred, United States Attorney Martin Estrada stood firm, stating, "My office will remain steadfast in standing up to hate and working to unite our community," as reported by the Department of Justice. Moreover, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, Donald Alway, took the opportunity to remind us all that victims of such crimes should not hesitate to "quickly contact law enforcement to make a report." Their rapid intervention was crucial in this case as it prevented the threats from escalating into action.

Lackner, who has been in federal custody since December 2022, now faces a possible five-year prison term at his sentencing hearing, scheduled for June 3. This case, investigated by the FBI, is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda B. Elbogen of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section.