The man accused of setting fire to a Chabad Jewish Center in Punta Gorda is set for an arraignment in federal court.
The arraignment is set for 2 p.m. on Thursday.
Blake Hoover is accused of setting the fire in September. Following the incident, the Punta Gorda Police Department tracked Hoover’s car to the Chabad area using a license plate reader. Hoover’s mother said he expressed hatred toward Jewish people and returned home with an empty gas can and spray paint the night of the arson.
In late September, Hoover faced a judge in court after being federally charged with felony arson for alleged crimes in Charlotte County. The State Attorney’s Office prosecutor requested his detention, citing him as a community threat.
Hoover was appointed federal defense attorney James Lapin after it was determined he could not afford legal representation.
He waived his right to a detention and preliminary hearing, resulting in his continued custody.
If convicted, Hoover faces a minimum of five years and up to 20 years in federal prison. Additionally, he could be fined up to $250,000 and a $100 mandatory special assessment.
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