Which Gospel Contains The Beatitudes?

Christian Veteran Takes On Legal Fight To Dismiss Hate Crime Charge

The motion to dismiss the felony hate crime charge filed by Michael Cassidy, the U.S. Navy veteran who removed a satanic display at the Iowa state Capitol, highlights the ongoing legal battle surrounding the incident. Represented by defense attorney Sarah Pasquale, Cassidy contends that the charge is inappropriate due to The Satanic Temple’s disputed status as a legitimate religion.

In December, Cassidy gained attention for toppling a statue of Baphomet, erected by The Satanic Temple near a Nativity scene in the Iowa state Capitol. Initially facing a misdemeanor charge of fourth-degree mischief, the offense was later elevated to a third-degree criminal mischief hate crime charge, sparking a legal debate over the nature of his actions and their relation to religious expression.

Pasquale’s argument challenges the hate crime charge, asserting that it does not align with Cassidy’s actions since The Satanic Temple, in her view, lacks the essential characteristics of a recognized religion. She argues that the group’s unconventional beliefs and practices, including their purported lack of worship and faith, render them ineligible for protection under hate crime statutes typically applied to religious entities.

Furthermore, Pasquale contends that even if the hate crime law were deemed applicable, its enforcement would infringe upon Cassidy’s constitutional rights to freedom of speech. By penalizing Cassidy for his beliefs or actions, she argues, the law would encroach upon his fundamental rights to express dissenting views and challenge symbols he finds objectionable.

In response to Pasquale’s legal filings, Lucien Greaves, co-founder of The Satanic Temple, criticized her arguments, invoking legal precedents such as the Hobby Lobby case. Cassidy’s case is scheduled for trial in May, with significant financial support garnered through crowdfunding efforts to aid his defense.

Throughout the legal proceedings, Cassidy has maintained his belief in the righteousness of his actions, criticizing the presence of satanic displays on government property. His stance has garnered support from public figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Pastor John MacArthur, who view his actions as a principled stand against what they perceive as the normalization of satanic symbols in public spaces.