Bail Hearing Adjourned for Halifax Man Arrested Near U.S. Consulate

Overview

• Ali Assakereh was arrested on Aug. 10 after police found a propane tank and containers of flammable liquid in his parked car near the U.S. Consulate, triggering downtown evacuations and an explosives-unit response.
• He faces multiple charges including uttering threats, public mischief and a count for threatening an internationally protected person that prosecutors treat as terrorism-related conduct.
• Explosive experts later determined the materials posed no danger and no one was injured, but the incident closed streets, office towers and a hotel while authorities investigated.
• The defence has repeatedly adjourned bail while working on a family-based release plan and says Assakereh agreed to remain in custody for now, but Crown prosecutor Lee-Ann Conrod continues to oppose release.
• Assakereh is due back in Halifax provincial court by video on Sept. 10 to enter pleas and indicate his choice of trial format, and the case has renewed attention on security at diplomatic sites after other consulate incidents this year.