The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is relieved by this week’s decision to detain Professor Guangtian Ha pending trial on federal cyberstalking charges.

According to the indictment, Ha allegedly sent about 50 threatening and antisemitic messages over more than seven months to a member of the Haverford College community. The messages reportedly included the family’s home address and references to their child. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of these allegations and the fear and distress they have caused. We hope it provides the victim and their family with a measure of reassurance after months of fear, intimidation and concern for their safety.

The ruling sends a clear message: Antisemitic threats made online are real threats, and they carry real consequences. Law enforcement and the courts will treat them with the seriousness they deserve.

We are grateful to the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Haverford Township Police Department and Haverford College for their diligent efforts to investigate these allegations and protect those who have been targeted.The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and its Center to Combat Antisemitism remain steadfast in their commitment to confronting antisemitism, supporting those targeted by hate, and helping ensure that Jewish individuals and families throughout the region can live openly, safely and with a sense of belonging.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses antisemitic threats, harassment, or suspicious activity is encouraged to report it through the Jewish Federation’s Incident Reporting Form at jewishphilly.org/report.

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About the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
Since 1901, the Jewish Federation has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we annually invest in caring for those in need, combating antisemitism and global crisis, and securing a vibrant Jewish future. For more information, please visit: jewishphilly.org.

For media inquiries, please contact phillyfed@redbanyan.com.