County prosecutors in Phoenix say they have filed a direct complaint charging a white man who says he felt threatened by a black youth’s rap music with first-degree murder in the 17-year-old’s killing.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office filed the complaint Tuesday against 27-year-old Michael Adams, who is under arrest in the fatal stabbing Thursday of Elijah Al-Amin at a suburban convenience store.
The killing has sparked outrage nationwide, with people taking to Twitter with the hashtag: #JusticeForElijah.
Peoria police arrested Adams after they found him walking near the crime scene with a pocket knife and blood on his body.
Adams’ attorney says he is mentally ill.
Arizona statutes do not include a criminal charge for hate crimes, but there is enhanced sentencing for crimes motivated by bias.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.