The leader of an international neo-Nazi group, known as the “Maniac Murder Cult,” has been extradited to the United States from Moldova. Michail Chkhikvishvili, a 21-year-old from Georgia, faces multiple felony charges, including soliciting hate crimes and acts of mass violence. His arrest follows an undercover FBI operation where he allegedly instructed an agent to poison candy and distribute it to Jewish children and racial minorities, dressed as Santa Claus.
Chkhikvishvili, also known as “Commander Butcher,” pleaded not guilty in a Brooklyn court. His attorney requested a psychiatric evaluation and suicide watch. Prosecutors described the Maniac Murder Cult as promoting a violent neo-Nazi ideology through online channels and a manifesto called the “Hater’s Handbook.” They allege the group’s rhetoric inspired real-world violence, including a deadly school shooting.
Court documents detail Chkhikvishvili’s alleged boasting about assaulting an elderly Jewish man and directing others to commit violent acts. He reportedly viewed the U.S. as a prime target due to easy access to firearms, even suggesting targeting homeless individuals. His arrest in Moldova last July concluded a lengthy extradition process.
Attorney General Pam Bondi called the case a stark reminder of the dangers of online extremism and the potential for such ideologies to incite horrific acts of violence. The case highlights the ongoing threat posed by online radicalization and the importance of combating hate groups and their dangerous rhetoric.
