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Islamic Leader Accused Of Concealing Terrorist Ties On Citizenship Application
POSTED: 4:03 p.m. EST January 20, 2004
UPDATED: 5:05 p.m. EST January 20, 2004
CLEVELAND -- The Islamic Center of Cleveland has decided to place a prominent clergyman on paid leave while he prepares to defend himself against allegations concerning his application for US citizenshipm, reported NewsChannel5.
Iman Fawaz Damra was arrested last week for allegedly concealing his connection to terrorist groups when applying for citizenship. He was charged with providing false information on his application.
Damra denied the allegations and asked the Islamic and other religious communities for their support.
In a press release, the Islamic Center of Cleveland said its decision is not meant to comment on the merits of the allegations against Damra. It said the Islamic Center "is confident that the judicial process will resolve this issue for the Iman in a fair and appropriate manner."
If convicted, Damra could lose his citizenship and face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Damra pleaded not guilty last week and was released on $160,000 bail. His trial is scheduled to begin Feb. 23.
Iman Fawaz Damra was arrested last week for allegedly concealing his connection to terrorist groups when applying for citizenship. He was charged with providing false information on his application.
Damra denied the allegations and asked the Islamic and other religious communities for their support.
In a press release, the Islamic Center of Cleveland said its decision is not meant to comment on the merits of the allegations against Damra. It said the Islamic Center "is confident that the judicial process will resolve this issue for the Iman in a fair and appropriate manner."
If convicted, Damra could lose his citizenship and face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Damra pleaded not guilty last week and was released on $160,000 bail. His trial is scheduled to begin Feb. 23.
Previous Stories:
- January 16, 2004: Islamic Leader Denies Accusation Of Concealing Terrorism Links
- January 15, 2004: Mosque Votes To Keep Indicted Imam As Spiritual Leader
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