In a startling incident in Billings, Montana, Genevienne Rancuret, 55, was taken into custody after allegedly using her vehicle to attack a group of religious protestors, leading to injuries for one individual. Reports suggest that Rancuret targeted the group, believing they were promoting anti-white racist ideologies.
Group Under Attack
The victims, affiliated with Israel United in Christ, were peacefully protesting on a sidewalk, utilizing signs and an amplifier. The Southern Poverty Law Center recognizes this group as a radical faction of the Black Hebrew Israelites.
Assault Details
As per Lt. Matt Lennick of the Billings Police, Rancuret allegedly drove her vehicle into the group multiple times, resulting in minor injuries to a 45-year-old man. The assault took place near a convenience store, where Rancuret had previously voiced her complaints.
Legal Consequences for Rancuret
Facing serious legal repercussions, Rancuret is charged with eight counts of assault with a weapon (her vehicle), felony criminal mischief, and driving under the influence. She is also detained for possibly violating a previous suspended or deferred sentence.
Witness Perspective
Sarah Gebhardt, employed at the convenience store, witnessed Rancuret’s emotional state and suspected intoxication. Gebhardt recalled Rancuret threatening to run over the demonstrators, a threat that was initially dismissed but later carried out.
Response from the Targeted Group
Israel United in Christ issued a statement asserting their peaceful conduct during the demonstration and accused the Southern Poverty Law Center of spreading misleading information about them, which they believe could incite violence.
Group’s Controversial Views
The Anti-Defamation League notes that leaders of Israel United in Christ have made contentious remarks about Jews and believe that Black individuals, Hispanics, and Native Americans are the legitimate descendants of the Israelite tribes.
Investigation Progress
The FBI is currently examining the case for any breaches of federal law, while the Yellowstone County Attorney’s Office deliberates on filing state bias-related criminal charges. Rancuret’s legal representation is yet to be confirmed as her case has not appeared in court records.
Previous Legal Encounters
In a prior legal issue, Rancuret was found guilty of felony assault with a weapon in September 2021, resulting in a deferred seven-year sentence and probation.
This disturbing event has sparked wider discussions regarding the root causes of such attacks and their impact on community safety and racial harmony.
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