Hadi Matar looks down as a jury finds him guilty in an attack at Chautauqua Institution. P-J photos by Gregory Bacon
MAYVILLE – District Attorney Jason Schmidt spoke to the media after a jury convicted Hadi Matar, a New Jersey man, of attempted murder and assault. This verdict comes two and a half years after he attacked author Salman Rushdie at the Chautauqua Institution.
Schmidt felt a mix of adrenaline and relief, happy to see the case reach a conclusion. He noted that changes in laws have made such cases challenging, but this prosecution was somewhat easier, thanks to many witnesses and video evidence showing the brutal attack on Rushdie.
During the trial, Schmidt presented several videos of the stabbing, alongside testimonies from Rushdie and another victim, Henry Reece. Audience members and staff at the amphitheater acted quickly, rushing to the stage to save Rushdie.
“The Chautauqua Institution community saved Mr. Rushdie’s life,” Schmidt said, praising their bravery.
In closing arguments, Matar’s defense argued there wasn’t enough evidence to prove his intent to kill Rushdie. They described the footage as merely showing an assault without revealing Matar’s state of mind.
However, Schmidt countered this by highlighting the targeted nature of the attack and the severity of Rushdie’s injuries, which included wounds to his eye, liver, and neck.
After the trial, Matar’s attorney claimed his client was “overcharged” due to Rushdie’s fame and announced plans to appeal the verdict.
The jury reached their decision in under two hours, showing confidence in the prosecution’s evidence. Sentencing is scheduled for April 23. Matar could face up to 25 years in prison, though if sentenced consecutively, he could receive up to an additional seven years.
In addition to the state charges, Matar faces federal charges relating to terrorism, including attempting to support Hezbollah and participating in acts of terror. If convicted on these charges, he could face life in prison.
The federal allegations connect Matar’s actions to a fatwa issued by Hezbollah against Rushdie in 1989 after the release of his book, “The Satanic Verses,” which is considered blasphemous by many Muslims.
Barone, representing Matar in the federal case, stated they are still in the early stages and lack a timeline for when it might go to trial.
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