West Hempstead synagogue arson case results in hate crime charges

A Lakeview man who was arrested for allegedly vandalizing a West Hempstead synagogue is facing upgraded hate crimes charges, Nassau County authorities said. Azzm Khan pleaded not guilty on Oct. 22 at Nassau County court to charges of arson as a hate crime, criminal mischief as a hate crime, and related counts. Nassau police said the 29-year-old suspect lit a lawn sign on fire and tried to stuff it under the door of Young Israel of West Hempstead on Hempstead Avenue at 11:30 p.m. Oct. 21. Khan then put the sign in a bush, which caught fire, repeatedly kicked the back door of the synagogue, and broke the sideview mirror of a Nassau police auxiliary vehicle, authorities added. Fifth Squad detectives took the suspect into custody without incident, say there are no known threats to the community, and are continuing the investigation.  Bail for Kahn was set at $50,000 cash, $125,000 bond or $250,000 partially secured bond. He is due back in court on Nov. 4. His attorney did no