JOLIET, Ill. (AP) – A 71-year-old unincorporated Plainfield landlord is set to appear in court Wednesday, facing charges in the stabbing death of a six-year-old boy. Joseph Czuba is also accused of seriously injuring the boy’s mother. The boy’s loved ones plan to hold a vigil for him before the court appearance.
Czuba is charged with first degree murder and two counts of hate crime. The Will County state’s attorney accused him of stabbing the boy and his mother because they are Muslim. The family had been renting an apartment unit from Czuba over the past two years.
The accused landlord previously pleaded not guilty to the charges and was denied bond. A vigil will be held outside the courthouse by local faith-based organizations to remember the young victim.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the community, and the upcoming court appearance is expected to draw significant attention. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of hate crimes on individuals and families.
The six-year-old boy’s death has prompted an outpouring of support for the family, as well as discussions about the need for stronger measures to combat hate crimes. The court proceedings will provide an opportunity for the family and community to seek justice and closure in the wake of this devastating loss.