Jury Convicts Duo in Mayor’s Hate Crime Hoax Case

**Jurors Find Colorado Springs Residents Guilty of Staging Hate Crime Hoax**

In a significant ruling, jurors in Denver, Colorado, have declared Ashley Blackcloud and Derrick Bernard guilty of orchestrating a “hate crime hoax” related to the recent mayoral runoff election in Colorado Springs. Both individuals were convicted on two counts: conspiracy to defraud the United States and conveying false information about a threat involving the use of fire.

The case emerged from a bizarre incident where the duo filmed a video that depicted a burning cross placed ominously in front of campaign signs supporting the mayoral candidate, Yemi Mobolade. This troubling footage was subsequently sent to various media outlets in an apparent ploy to elicit sympathy for Mobolade amidst a charged electoral atmosphere. The implications of this staged act were significant, shedding light on the darker motivations that can sometimes underpin political maneuvering.

Sentencing dates have been set for the defendants: Bernard will face court on September 11, followed by Blackcloud on September 17. A third defendant in the case, Deanna West, who accepted a plea deal earlier, will see her sentencing on September 4.

After the jury announced their verdict, Bernard’s attorney requested to poll the jurors individually. Each juror affirmed their decision, ensuring the verdict’s integrity. Notably, Bernard is already facing a life imprisonment sentence for his involvement in a separate murder case from 2019, complicating his situation further. He will remain in custody with the U.S. Marshal’s Office, while Blackcloud currently stays on bond, with discussions around possibly imposing an ankle monitor on her as she awaits her upcoming sentencing.

Following the verdict, Mayor Mobolade expressed his feelings of relief and gratitude, stating, “My wife and I are grateful that justice has been served with today’s guilty verdict for Ashley Blackcloud and Derrick Bernard. This moment brings a sense of closure and relief, not only for our family, but for the Colorado Springs community as a whole.” Mobolade’s statement reflects a broader sentiment in the community surrounding the trial, emphasizing a collective rejection of hate and a commitment to shared values of safety and unity.

During the trial, the prosecution focused on two pivotal questions: was there a conspiracy, and did the actions constitute a credible threat? Prosecutors painted a vivid picture of Bernard and Blackcloud living out a “dark fantasy,” suggesting they believed the staged incident would somehow bolster Mobolade’s image rather than pose an actual danger to him. Evidence presented included surveillance footage that placed both defendants near the site of the incident, adding to the weight of the prosecution’s case.

In their defense, the attorneys for Blackcloud argued that the incident did not represent a “true threat,” positing that Mobolade was aware of the video but took no immediate action to report it to the authorities. This line of reasoning raised questions about the subjective nature of threats and the intentions behind their actions, creating a nuanced debate throughout the proceedings.

The five-day trial saw a range of testimonies, including from Mayor Mobolade and his wife, Abbey, as well as multiple forensic experts from the FBI and even Bernard himself. These testimonies illustrated the varied perspectives and implications surrounding the case, highlighting the complexities involved in navigating issues related to race, politics, and public safety.

For ongoing updates and detailed coverage of the trial and its aftermath, residents are encouraged to follow local news sources and stay informed about developments in their community.

**Related News:**

Mayor Mobolade’s testimony continues in the hate crime hoax trial. A suspect who took a plea deal has also testified, and an FBI agent has provided insights into the investigation that brought this case to light.

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