CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A Chillicothe man has been arrested for terroristic threats after police say he made comments about joining Jihad projects overseas.
According to the Chillicothe Police Department, Casey Crabtree, a student of the Youth Build Program at the OUC Shoemaker Center, was arrested on charges of Terroristic Threats on February 14th, 2023. The arrest was made after an employee of Sojourners Care Network reported Casey’s concerning behavior to the authorities. According to the employee, Casey had recently converted to Islam and had made negative remarks about American culture, and expressed a desire to join Jihad projects overseas. He also reportedly stated that he had the urge to “slaughter people”.
Upon investigating the allegations, officers checked Casey’s criminal history and found a record of Assault and Weapons Under Disability. Based on the detailed statements from the witness, reports say, and the nature of the complaint, the Ross County Prosecutors Office determined that there was probable cause for arrest.
Officers arrested Casey at his residence on Lillie St and transported him to Ross County Jail. A search of his room did not reveal anything concerning, but a preliminary search of his electronic devices did not immediately indicate any plans of harm to himself or others.
Casey denied having any plans of terrorism, stating that he was simply exploring the Muslim faith and had the desire to meet with a spiritual leader. He acknowledged having a lengthy conversation with the Sojourners employee about religion and beliefs but denied making the statement that he wanted to “slaughter people,” although he acknowledged stating a variation of that quote.
Casey is currently being held at the Ross County Jail. The investigation into his alleged threats is ongoing.
