Overview
- Justin Ward, 34, is charged with one count of a hate crime and one count of aggravated battery in a public place, both felonies.
- Prosecutors say the confrontation began in the parking lot at Crave Cookies on E. Roosevelt Road and continued inside the bakery.
- According to prosecutors, Ward shouted slurs including "F*** Iran," "this is America," and "I can’t f***ing stand you Indians," then spat on the victim, striking his neck and chest.
- Police say Ward followed the victim back outside, fled when sirens were heard, and was later arrested at his home.
- Judge Leah Bendik denied pretrial release, and officials including State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Police Chief Joe Grage condemned the alleged conduct and urged reporting of hate incidents.