NJ Man Gets 8-Year Sentence for Racial Harassment Caught on Video
TL/DR –
Edward C. Mathews, a white New Jersey man who was filmed in 2021 verbally harassing his Black neighbors with racial slurs, has been sentenced to eight years in prison, with a minimum term of four years before he is eligible for parole. He pled guilty to four counts of bias intimidation and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute, following an incident in which he was filmed using racial slurs, and police subsequently found psilocin mushrooms in his home. Mathews, who was also accused of stalking his neighbors and damaging their property, apologized for his behavior during his sentencing and will be eligible for parole in about 16 months.
New Jersey Man Sentenced Over Racist Viral Video
A white man from New Jersey, Edward C. Mathews, who was featured in a 2021 viral video racially insulting his Black neighbors, has been sentenced to eight years in prison.
As reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Mathews, 47, must serve at least four years before he qualifies for parole.
In the incident that grabbed attention, Mathews was seen on video using racial slurs against his neighbors. He pleaded guilty to four counts of bias intimidation and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute.
Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw emphasized that bias crimes would not be tolerated, as stated in a press release.
Mathews had been reported to the Mount Laurel Police Department for harassment, with the police discovering psilocin mushrooms, a hallucinogenic substance, during a search of Mathews’ home.
He was also accused of stalking, damaging vehicles, and smearing feces on the windows of his Black neighbors according to NBC Philadelphia.
Mathews apologized at his sentencing, promising to rebuild the community. He acknowledged his insensitivity and disrespect.
Already in custody, Mathews will receive credit for time served and could be eligible for parole in roughly 16 months.
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