Man convicted on terrorism charge in synagogue firebombings
A New Jersey man charged with vandalizing and firebombing Jewish temples and a rabbi’s home has been convicted of terrorism.
Anthony Graziano was found guilty Friday on 20 counts overall and faces up to life in prison when he’s sentenced in July. But the Bergen County jury acquitted the 24-year-old Lodi man of aggravated arson and attempted murder charges.
Graziano was charged along with longtime friend Aakash Dalal for the 2012 attacks.
The attack in Rutherford ignited a fire in the bedroom of a rabbi’s residence. The rabbi, his wife, five children and his parents were sleeping at the time.
The case was the first to employ the state’s anti-terrorism statute. Graziano’s attorney said his client never intended to harm anyone. He said Graziano plans to appeal.
Dalal will be tried separately.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.