John Doran from New Hampshire has been fined $5,000 after violently threatening a Black family at a gas station.
On July 29, 2020, the family appeared from out-of-town at a Seabrook, New Hampshire gas station.
When Doran saw the family's car approach, he yelled slurs at them:
"Go back to Africa, [n-word]. You're not getting any gas here, [n-word]."
The family got out of their vehicle in reaction to Doran's shouts.
According to court documents, Doran threatened them in response:
"During this interaction, the defendant brandished the gas nozzle at (the victim) and threatened to spray [the victim] with gasoline."
"The defendant told (the victim) to 'back the f'k up, [n-word], before I burn the f'k out of you.'"
"[The victim] feared for his safety and believed that the defendant intended to harm him."
After the interaction, Doran left the gas station, yelling:
"F'k you, [n-word]s. Wait till I get back. You better not be here."
In court on Monday March 17, the Rockingham County Superior Court judge ruled Doran violated the state's Civil Rights Act, which rallies against violence and threats against people of color.
According to the public record, the court concluded Doran was motivated by animosity for the family's race and ruled he intended to threaten or otherwise harm the family.
Because of his actions and his violation of the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act, Doran must pay a $5,000 fine within 30 days of the court hearing. Doran also cannot speak to the family or be physically within 250 feet of them.
If he fails to keep these agreements over the course of the next three years, he may receive additional charges, fines or other penalties.
Twitter was appalled by Doran's behavior.
In addition to his fines and restrictions, Doran may also be facing imprisonment.
As a result of brandishing a dangerous weapon, the gas nozzle, and because his actions were deemed racially motivated, Doran's actions are considered to be a Class B felony, which could result in 10 to 30 years in jail.
The court also stated there was evidence Doran actually punched one of the family members, which would be a charge of simple assault and call for 2 to 5 years in jail.
Finally, Doran's verbal altercation and threats would be a Class A misdemeanor and eligible for another 2 to 5 years in jail.
Doran sure didn't roll out the welcome wagon for a family who was only passing through. Now he's paying the price for his bigotry.
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