GEAUGA COUNTY, Ohio — Court records obtained by 3News show that the grand jury in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio indicated the 20-year-old man who is accused of vandalizing a church in Geauga County.
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20-year-old Aimenn Penny of Alliance was arrested on March 31 by the FBI after allegedly using Molotov cocktails against the Community Church of Chesterland on March 25.
According to court records, Penny was indicted Friday on the following charges:
- One count of obstruction of persons in the free exercise of religious beliefs
- Two counts of arson
- One count of receiving or possessing a destructive device
If convicted, Penny faces a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison for the violation of the Church Arson Prevention Act. Penny also faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison for the malicious use of explosive materials charge and up to 10 years in prison for the possession of a destructive device charge.
In addition, if convicted of using fire to commit a federal felony, Penny faces a 10-year mandatory prison sentence that will run consecutively with any other prison term imposed.
While no one was injured in the attack, officials told 3News that the church's sign was destroyed.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The video at the top of the story previously aired on 3News on March 31, 2023.
The attack happened nearly a week before the Community Church of Chesterland and Chardon restaurant Element 41 hosted a drag queen brunch and story hour.
A full copy of the indictment can be viewed below:
EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above previously aired on 3News on March 26, 2023.