A federal court in New York has sentenced a 22-year-old neo-Nazi extremist to 15 years in prison after authorities uncovered multiple violent hate crime plots, including a plan involving poisoned candy targeting children.
The man, identified as Michail Chkhikvishvili, was accused of leading an extremist organization known as the “Maniac Murder Cult,” which promoted racial violence and antisemitic attacks through online platforms and extremist propaganda.
Officials said the case exposed a dangerous international network encouraging acts of terrorism and hate-driven violence in the United States.
Extremist Group Linked to Violent Hate Campaigns
According to prosecutors, Chkhikvishvili used encrypted messaging apps and online channels to recruit individuals for attacks against Jewish communities and racial minorities.
Investigators said the extremist group spread violent material through a publication called the “Hater’s Handbook,” which allegedly encouraged bombings, killings, and acts of terror intended to spark racial conflict.
Authorities also claimed the organization’s propaganda had connections to real-world violent incidents, including previous attacks carried out by radicalized individuals.
The defendant reportedly traveled to Brooklyn several times and discussed plans targeting minority communities in New York.
Poisoned Candy Plot Shocked Investigators
One of the most alarming accusations involved a scheme in which the extremist leader allegedly encouraged someone to dress as Santa Claus and distribute poisoned candy to minority children.
Federal investigators later said the plot evolved into discussions about targeting Jewish children and schools in Brooklyn using toxic substances, including ricin.
Court documents revealed that Chkhikvili shared detailed instructions on producing poisons, explosives, and harmful chemical mixtures with individuals he believed were willing to carry out attacks. One of those contacts was actually an undercover FBI employee.
Officials described the plans as acts of domestic terrorism motivated by antisemitic and racist ideology.
Defendant Expressed Regret Before Sentencing
Before sentencing, Chkhikvishvili reportedly apologized to the court and admitted spreading hatred and violence online.
His legal team argued that he had struggled with mental health issues and had become radicalized through extremist content on social media during his teenage years.
Defense attorneys requested a shorter prison term, claiming he had changed his beliefs while in custody following his arrest in Moldova in 2024. He was later extradited to the United States to face charges.
However, prosecutors pushed for a lengthy sentence, saying his actions posed a serious threat to public safety and targeted innocent civilians, including children.
