SYRACUSE, NY – A student at Cornell University, Patrick Dai, 21, of Pittsford, was taken into custody today following charges of posting threats to harm or kill another through interstate communication channels. The arrest was announced by officials including United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman, Alfred Watson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albany Field Office, New York State Police Acting Superintendent Dominick L. Chiumento, and Cornell University Police Chief Anthony Bellamy.
Dai is accused of posting hostile messages on a Cornell-focused online forum. Some messages targeted Jewish individuals, while another hinted at potential violence at a Cornell dining facility known as 104 West.
This hall, close to the Cornell Jewish Center, primarily serves Kosher food and is adjacent to student residences. The threats escalated with Dai allegedly threatening physical harm to Jewish individuals on campus, using explicit and violent language. However, it’s crucial to note that these charges are currently only allegations, and Dai remains innocent until proven otherwise.
If convicted, Dai could face a prison term of up to 5 years, a potential fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. The final sentencing will depend on various factors, including the specific statute violated. Dai is set to appear in a federal court in Syracuse, NY, tomorrow.