He put worshipers in danger.
A man who attempted to attack a Virginia church while armed with a gun and knives has been convicted on multiple charges and is facing a lengthy prison sentence, potentially up to life. Rui Jiang was found guilty by a jury on Thursday of charges including attempting to disrupt the religious practices of congregants, making online threats, and violating firearms laws.
Jiang is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, but he could be sentenced to life. A hearing to determine his sentence is scheduled for June 18, as announced by the United States Department of Justice. The charges stem from an incident on September 23, 2023, when Jiang posted several threats on social media targeting Park Valley Church in Falls Church, Virginia. A concerned Maryland resident saw the posts and alerted law enforcement.
The following day, September 24, an off-duty police officer and church members spotted Jiang’s vehicle on the church property. Churchgoers detained him until authorities arrived. At the time of his arrest, Jiang was carrying a loaded handgun, a spare magazine, and two knives.
Fairfax County police and other local departments responded quickly, preventing what could have been a dangerous situation. Following his arrest, a search warrant executed at Jiang’s home uncovered additional evidence that supported his intent to harm others. In December 2023, investigators added an attempted aggravated murder charge after analyzing digital evidence from his home, which revealed further details of his violent plans, including threatening messages and a disturbing letter to the families of potential victims.
In March 2024, Jiang was indicted, with authorities also uncovering anti-religious posts and further evidence of his intentions. One of the letters found by investigators contained an apology to the families of his potential victims, expressing regret for his planned actions, along with indications of his desire to inflict harm.