A former Riverside resident, Jaime Tran, has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for the targeted shooting of two Jewish men outside synagogues in Los Angeles’ Pico-Robertson district last year. Tran, 30, pleaded guilty to hate crimes and firearm charges, admitting to shooting the men on February 15 and 16, 2023, because of their Jewish faith. Both victims survived the attacks.
U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland condemned the acts, stating that hate-fueled violence endangers communities and democracy itself. Tran’s history of antisemitic beliefs, including threats and propaganda, escalated in the months leading up to the shootings. Prohibited from purchasing firearms due to previous mental health holds, Tran used an acquaintance to acquire weapons used in the attacks.
The sentencing has brought some closure to the community, with organizations like the Jewish Federation Los Angeles expressing gratitude for the swift investigation and prosecution. Federal authorities and local leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting communities from hate crimes, emphasizing that such violence will be met with severe punishment.
