Macon, GA – Bibb County deputies say Jon Eugene Minadeo II is under arrest following a protest outside a Macon temple.
Investigators say people in the area of Temple Beth Israel on Cherry St. called the sheriff’s office over a disturbance in front of the temple on Friday evening.
Deputies say neighbors reported a group of protesters gathered in front of the temple shouting obscene language. Deputies say the callers also reported the group used a Pride flag to hang a blowup doll from a stop sign.
Once on scene, deputies ordered the group to disburse. However, investigators say Jon Eugene Minadeo II, 40, of West Palm Beach, Fla., ignored their commands and kept using a bullhorn to shout obscenities.
Investigators say Minadeo’s continued rants blamed the Jewish community for government discord and homosexuality.
Because he refused to stop shouting in the bullhorn, Bibb deputies say they charged Minadeo with disorderly conduct and public disturbance.
Investigators say once they arrested Minadeo, the rest of the group dispersed, and no other arrests were made.
Antisemitic materials were recently discovered in Warner Robins as well. Police there say they are working with multiple agencies to investigate.
Following the incidents in both Warner Robins and Macon, U.S. Attorney Leary released the following statement to WGXA News:
The events in Macon and Warner Robins targeting the Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities are deeply troubling. I strongly condemn acts to intimidate and threaten people based on their faith, race, ancestry, or LGBTQ+ identity. Our office will defend the civil rights of all citizens.