Christian Navy Vet Charged with Hate Crime for Toppling Satanic Statue
In a stark contrast to the recent trend of statues of the nations Founding Fathers being toppled without consequence, a Christian Navy veteran, Michael Cassidy, is facing serious legal repercussions for his act of protest against a satanic display at the Iowa Capitol. Cassidy, a former F/A-18 Hornet pilot, turned himself in after toppling a satanic statue associated with the controversial Satanic Temple.
The incident occurred just hours after a federal court found six pro-life activists guilty of peacefully demonstrating inside a late-term abortion clinic, raising concerns about the priorities of government officials and the harsh penalties being levied against Christians in America.
Meanwhile, participants in riots and vandals rarely see the inside of a courtroom, let alone get charged with felonies for their violence.
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Cassidy’s act of defiance took place in response to the presence of a demonic altar and a Baphomet statue installed by the Satanic Temple on the first floor of the Iowa Capitol weeks ahead of Christmas. The statue depicted a caped figure resembling a ram-headed Baphomet holding a red pentacle, symbolizing devil worship and the occult.
The Polk County Attorney’s Office elevated Cassidy’s original misdemeanor charge to a class D felony, citing his admission that he “destroyed the property because of the victim’s religion.” The Satanic Temple, known for its anti-Christian stance, has a history of provocative actions, including distributing satanic literature to children, championing the LGBTQ agenda and performing public “unbaptisms.”
We have reached the point where our Capitols are removing Jefferson while monuments to Satan are erected.
Realize where we are. pic.twitter.com/KFm1hX1XOi
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) December 12, 2023
While some argue that the display was lawful, given that the Satanic Temple petitioned for approval, others, like Cassidy, believe it glorifies an evil influence that goes against American principles that were founded on Christian values.
In a statement, Cassidy explained his actions, stating, “My conscience is held captive to the Word of God, not to bureaucratic decree. And so I acted.” Despite the legal consequences, Cassidy has received significant support, raising over $85,700 for his legal defense.
The Polk County Attorney’s Office emphasized its commitment to fair and just resolutions, regardless of religion, race, sexual orientation or economic status. The cost to replace or repair the destroyed statue is estimated between $750 and $1,500, with conflicting estimates from the Satanic Temple suggesting a higher amount.
Cassidy’s arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 15, sparking conversations about the balance between religious expression and legal consequences in a nation grappling with the effects of selling it’s soul to Satan.
Even non-Christians have taken notice of the dark powers that seem to be tearing down any semblance of God in our culture. Billionaire founder of Tesla and owner of X (formerly Twitter) Elon Musk has even spoken out on this particular case, questioning how America ended up on the path that she is currently on.
What has become of America? https://t.co/mj0J5zUJA2
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 31, 2024
Anyone suffering from fear, anxiety or doubt regarding what the future holds can look confidently for peace, foresight and wisdom in the Bible. These dark days are all a part of biblical prophecy, and they are taking place before our very eyes.
While it is easy to feel anger toward the people leading America down this dark path, there are spiritual forces at work that many are all too willing to dismiss and pay no attention. But this attitude runs contrary to what the Bible teaches Christians, stating that our battle is not with those of the flesh, but those of the spirit (Eph. 6:12). The sooner Christians wake up to this spiritual warfare reality, the sooner they can put on the whole armor of God and take the fight to the devil, instead of sitting on the sidelines while the world devolves into a godless, globalist society.{eoa}
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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
