Charlotte, North Carolina.After taking a loaded AR-15 rifle into a pizza place and threatening to kill eight people based on their national origin, color, and religion, a guy from Charlotte entered a guilty plea to a federal hate crime charge.
Incident at NoDa Pizza Shop
The incident happened on June 8, 2024, at Zmbies Pizza in the NoDa district on North Davidson Street. Court filings state that Maurice Hopkins, 32, asked a group of friends if they were Americans when he confronted them inside the eatery.
According to witnesses, he referred to the group as terrorists, ordered them to speak English, and instructed them to return home. By threatening to kill them, Hopkins intensified his threats.
After that, he exited the store, only to come back a few minutes later with a loaded AR-15 weapon. The victims escaped by way of a back door.
DOJ Confirms Hate Crime Motivation
Hopkins entered a guilty plea to one count of interfering with federally protected activities on August 19, 2025. He acknowledged threatening the group on the basis of their national origin, race, color, and religion, according to federal authorities.
According to court documents, Hopkins admitted that his activities were directed at those who were using a public establishment’s products and services.
The maximum penalty for the charge is ten years in federal prison. There is currently no set sentencing date.
Community Impact
Outrage was generated in Charlotte by the occurrence, especially in the arts-focused and diverse NoDa district, which is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. According to locals, the episode underscores growing worries about the availability of assault-style rifles and hate-fueled violence.
Stronger measures to safeguard communities from racially motivated threats and greater awareness of hate crimes have been demanded by local advocacy groups.
Next Steps in Case
Hopkins is still being held for sentencing. The guilty plea confirms the Department of Justice’s commitment to prosecuting hate crimes and safeguarding those targeted for their identity, according to federal prosecutors.
Residents of Charlotte are encouraged to participate in community forums at SaltudaStandard-Sentinel.com if they are worried about hate crimes or are looking for information on civil rights protections.
