(The Center Square) – A woman has pleaded guilty to a federal charge related to a 2023 hate crime hoax that involved a burning cross in front of a Colorado Springs mayoral campaign sign.
Deanna West, 38, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a count of maliciously conveying false information with a threat when she and two other individuals defaced a sign for then-candidate Yemi Mobolade and set a cross on fire, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado.
West allegedly conspired with Derrick Bernard Jr. and Ashley Blackcloud, who were also indicted and are awaiting trial.
Mobolade, who was born in Nigeria, beat Wayne Williams in the runoff election for mayor on May 16, 2023. The hoax took place early on April 23, 2023.
“After the initial election but before the run-off, one defendant [Bernard] sent a message in which he explained he was ‘mobilizing my squad in defense. Black ops style big brother.’ He also sent messages referencing a desire to prevent ‘the klan’ from gaining political control of the city,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
The office added: “The three then allegedly spread false information about the event through an email from an anonymous source to various news and civic organizations.”
Mobolade said in December 2024 that the hoax led to false claims about his involvement.
“I fully and truthfully cooperated throughout this investigation. I had no knowledge, warning or involvement in this crime. I did not lie to the FBI. I voluntarily provided all requested communication without a subpoena,” the mayor said, according to KKTV.
West is set for sentencing on June 13.
