A 21-year-old man who publicly admitted to burning a cross in Chicago’s Grant Park earlier this month has been charged with multiple offenses, including a felony hate crime, according to authorities.
Chicago police announced on June 17 that Merlin Lu faces a felony hate crime charge in connection with the June 9 incident, during which investigators say he erected a cross in Grant Park and set it on fire.
In addition to the hate crime allegation, Lu has been charged with felony arson and felony criminal damage to property. He also faces several misdemeanor counts, including reckless conduct and disorderly conduct.
Police said Lu was taken into custody on Monday following an investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Authorities credited the FBI, Illinois State Police, University of Chicago Police, and the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force with assisting in the case.
The cross-burning incident drew significant attention after images and video circulated online showing the structure burning in one of Chicago’s most recognizable public spaces. Investigators subsequently worked to identify the individual responsible.
Days after the incident, Lu spoke with NBC 5 Investigates reporter Chuck Goudie in an exclusive interview and acknowledged his role in the event.
During that interview, Lu said he intentionally set the cross on fire as a protest against President Donald Trump.
According to Lu’s statements, the demonstration included a red hat placed on top of the cross. He told NBC 5 Investigates that the hat was part of the protest message he intended to convey.
The incident quickly generated public debate and drew scrutiny from law enforcement officials.
Cross burnings have long been associated with intimidation and racial hostility in the United States, leading authorities to examine whether the circumstances surrounding the Grant Park event warranted hate crime charges.
Chicago police have not publicly released additional details regarding the evidence that led to the filing of the hate crime count.
However, prosecutors moved forward with the charge after reviewing the results of the investigation conducted by local, state, and federal authorities.
Grant Park, located in downtown Chicago, is one of the city’s most heavily visited public spaces and frequently serves as a location for civic events, demonstrations, and public gatherings.
The June 9 incident occurred in a highly visible area, drawing attention from both residents and visitors.
The case remains active as it proceeds through the court system. Authorities have not announced a trial date.
Lu’s admission during the NBC Chicago interview became a central element of public discussion surrounding the case, particularly because he openly acknowledged carrying out the act and described it as a political protest directed at President Trump.
Chicago police said the charges stem from the June 9 cross-burning incident and the resulting investigation conducted by the participating agencies.
The felony hate crime charge is among the most serious counts filed against Lu and could carry substantial legal consequences if he is convicted.
