Following an alleged stalking of a couple in Santa Monica due to their Star of David necklaces, along with death threats and ordering his dog to attack one victim, a man received charges on Thursday without a hate crime enhancement, which has frustrated advocates for the victims.

Nay Min Tar received one felony count of criminal threats and one count of misdemeanor battery from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office after last Sunday's event where he reportedly directed his Cane Corso at the pair.

Benjamin Basire, a legal scholar and friend of the victim, informed The Jerusalem Post that Tar pursued the walking couple for nearly two blocks because of the necklaces and issued death threats against them.

The 49-year-old man from Illinois reportedly shouted from his vehicle while brandishing a bat out the window, according to video footage shared by Basire: "You're a Zionist, mother f**king pedophile, mother f**king Jewish. Child killer!"

In the recording, Tar left his car, flailed his arms, and charged toward the couple while repeating "You're a genocider."

He then went back to his vehicle to retrieve the dog. Authorities noted that Tar ordered the animal to pursue and bite the male victim, leading to the battery charge. The man received treatment at the location for a minor wound.

Basire added that the victim is healing from several dog bites on his thighs and rear, plus the psychological impact of the event.

Basire contends circumstances warrant hate crime enhancement

The victims had previously withheld details about the Star of David necklaces to maintain some privacy. This shifted after the absence of a hate crime modifier in the charges, which Basire said left them stunned and angry. He urged officials to classify the case as a hate crime, stating the facts strongly indicated such treatment.

The Santa Monica Police Department clarified on Thursday that omitting the enhancement does not endorse the reported words or actions, and emphasized that criminal threats represent a serious offense.

"Hate has no place in Santa Monica," SMPD Chief Darrick Jacob stated. "We recognize the fear and damage these events cause, affecting not just victims but the wider community. Our duty involves swift response, thorough fact documentation, and accountability via legal channels."

Tar entered a not guilty plea with bail fixed at $2,500 before his June 15 preliminary hearing. Animal Control in Santa Monica took the dog into custody and moved it to a nearby shelter.

"Our communities must remain safe for all to live, work, and relax without fear," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. "Those issuing violence threats deserve prompt and fitting penalties, since such conduct can escalate further."