DENVER, Colo. (KOAA) — Jurors have found two people guilty for staging a so-called hate crime hoax.
Ashley Blackcloud and Derrick Bernard were on trial for the hoax that threatened now-Mayor Yemi Mobolade, leading up to the 2023 mayoral runoff election.
They were both found guilty on charges of conspiracy and interstate commerce. Sentencing for Bernard will be held on September 11, and Blackcloud's is set for September 17.
Hear About Mayor Mobolade's Testimony
Bernard asked for each juror to be polled individually. They all said “yes,” this is their verdict.
Bernard will be in custody in the U.S. Marshals Office. Blackcloud will remain on bond. Additionally, she will have a hearing next week on possible additional restrictions.
Friday, prosecutors and the defense gave their closing arguments.
Mayor Mobolade released the following statement regarding the verdict:
“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. We deeply appreciate the work of the judicial system, federal prosecutors, law enforcement, and everyone who worked diligently to bring this case to justice.
Moments like this remind us that hate has no home in our city. As we move forward, we do so with gratitude, healing, and a commitment to the values that make Colorado Springs a safe, just, and united community."
Background Information
The pair was charged after investigators said they created a video showing a burning cross in front of Mobolade’s campaign signs and sent it to media outlets to try to gain sympathy for Mobolade.
Prosecutors argued both Blackcloud and Bernard “lived out a dark fantasy” and that they believed they were helping Mobolade’s campaign instead of threatening him.
The said the two items the jury needs to find beyond a reasonable doubt were— was this a conspiracy, and was a threat made?
The defense argued jurors need to determine if it was a “true threat”.
They claimed the threat was not true because one of Mobolade’s campaign managers, on the day after the incident, said they believed it was staged.
The defense also argued that they think Mobolade knew it was a hoax because he did not contact the police immediately.
_____
_____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.
