A federal prison inmate has been given a life sentence for the murder of a fellow inmate based on religious hatred. Brandon Simonson, 41, was convicted of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, a hate crime, and assault, following the fatal assault on Matthew Phillips, who was Jewish, at Thomson Penitentiary in Thomson, Illinois. According to a report by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois, Simonson, alongside co-defendant Kristopher Martin, sought recognition from a white supremacist gang by targeting Phillips.
The violent incident that occurred on March 2, 2020, escalated when Simonson and Martin severely beat Phillips even after he was knocked unconscious. Phillips succumbed to his injuries three days later. The sentencing of Simonson took place after a jury verdict at U.S. District Court in Rockford earlier this year, whereas Martin, 43, of Brazil, Indiana, awaits sentencing on October 9, 2025, after entering a guilty plea earlier.
In the aftermath of the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros remarked, "Antisemitic violence has no place in our society." "Violence against people of faith is illegal and unacceptable, and will not be tolerated anywhere in our district, including in our prison system," he added. This firm stance is part of a broader commitment by law enforcement to protect freedom of faith within the community, including inmates.
Contributing to the case, the FBI underlined its ongoing effort to uphold safety and justice. Lucas Rothaar, Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, emphasized the role of the public, "The FBI and our law enforcement partners hold those who compromise the safety, or lives of others accountable, even those serving sentences in prison," he stated. The FBI continues to encourage public vigilance and reporting of any violent or suspicious activities.
