Watch CBS News

Christopher Keller Accused Of Terrorizing People On Long Island Based On His Perception Of Their Religion, Sexual Orientation

MANORVILLE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A Long Island man is facing hate crime charges, accused of terrorizing people based on his perception of their religion and sexual orientation.

Christopher Keller, of Manorville, appeared in a Suffolk County courtroom for arraignment Friday.

Prosecutors say in November and December, Keller targeted one victim because that person was Jewish and another because Keller thought that person was gay.

It's unclear, however, why others were targeted.

"He shot a gun into establishments and residences throughout the county. He vandalized cars and posted extremely disturbing messages on Instagram," Suffolk County District Attorney Timothy Sini said.

"This may have gone back and forth both ways. I think there's a lot more to this case than we heard today," said Glenn Obedin, Keller's attorney.

No one was hurt in the shootings.

Keller faces up to seven years in prison if he's convicted.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.