After Santa Monica attack, setting dog to bite Jewish victim, man charged but not with hate crime

A man accused of stalking a couple in Santa Monica, threatening them, and setting his dog to bite one of them has been charged with criminal threats and misdemeanor battery. However, the absence of a hate crime enhancement has angered victims' advocates.

Nay Min Tar allegedly targeted the couple because they wore Star of David necklaces, following them for two blocks before verbally abusing them and commanding his Cane Corso to attack. Video published by a friend of the victim, legal scholar Benjamin Basire, captured Tar shouting antisemitic slurs and calling the couple "Zionists" and "child killers."

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You’re a Zionist, mother f**king pedophile, mother f**king Jewish. Child killer!

Basire stated the male victim suffered multiple dog bites and emotional trauma. He argued that the circumstances clearly supported a hate crime charge, expressing shock and outrage that it was not pursued. The victims had initially withheld details about being targeted for their religious symbols to maintain confidentiality.

The Santa Monica Police Department acknowledged the incident's impact on the community, assuring that criminal threats are a serious charge and that they are committed to thorough investigation and accountability. "Hate has no place in Santa Monica," stated SMPD Chief Darrick Jacob. Tar pleaded not guilty and is awaiting a preliminary court hearing, while his dog was taken into custody by animal control.

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Hate has no place in Santa Monica. We understand the fear and harm these incidents can create, not only for the victims, but for the broader community. Our responsibility is to respond quickly, document the facts thoroughly, and pursue accountability through the legal process.