AAI Statement on the Grand Jury’s Indictment of Patrick Syring

WASHINGTON – Aug. 16, 2007 - Yesterday afternoon we were notified that the grand jury has returned two indictments charging Patrick Syring with violations of Threatening Communication in Interstate Commerce and violating the civil rights of the employees of the Arab American Institute.

James Zogby, the president of the Arab American Institute, said, “We are pleased with word that the grand jury has returned two indictments. This has been a matter of concern to me and my entire office. The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice has been responsive, and we feel protected. The threats were both intimidating and frightening – and the fact that Mr. Syring was a 20-year career officer at the Department of State made it of even greater concern.”

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Founded in 1985, the Arab American Institute (AAI) is a nonprofit organization committed to the civic and political empowerment of Americans of Arab descent.  AAI provides policy, research and public affairs services to support a broad range of community activities.

For more information on AAI, please visit http://www.aaiusa.org