WEDGEFIELD, FL—Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, 43, a Jordanian citizen residing in Orlando, was arrested on July 11 after a series of targeted attacks against businesses and critical infrastructure in Florida. Hnaihen, accused of causing over $700,000 in damages, faces serious charges including four counts of threatening to use explosives and one count of destruction of an energy facility.
The arrest followed an incident in late June where Hnaihen allegedly broke into a solar power generation facility in Wedgefield, systematically destroying solar panels and electronics.
He left behind threatening letters, which were also found at an industrial propane gas depot in Orlando.
The coordinated efforts of the FBI, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Maitland Police Department, Winter Park Police Department, and Orlando Police Department led to the identification and arrest of Hnaihen. He was detained pending trial after a detention hearing, charged with extensive property damage and threats of violence.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the gravity of the threats, noting that the defendant’s actions were motivated by hate and a desire to target businesses for their perceived support of Israel.
FBI Director Christopher Wray reiterated that violence and property destruction used as intimidation tactics would face full legal repercussions.
U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Varadan, along with Trial Attorneys Ryan White and George Kraehe of the Counterterrorism Section, are leading the prosecution, emphasizing the importance of addressing hate-based threats and violence to uphold public safety and security.
The Department of Justice did not reveal the man’s immigration status or how and when he entered the United States.