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DOJ seeks death penalty for killer of two Israeli staff.

5/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the DOJ will seek the death penalty for Elias Rodriguez.
The notice filed Friday requires Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s approval before a capital sentence can be pursued.
Rodriguez, who shouted “Free Palestine,” wore a red keffiyeh, killed two Israeli Embassy employees outside the Capital Jewish Museum, pleaded not guilty, and is scheduled to appear before Judge Randolph Moss on June 30.

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Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the DOJ will seek the death penalty for Elias Rodriguez.
The notice filed Friday requires Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s approval before a capital sentence can be pursued.
Rodriguez, who shouted “Free Palestine,” wore a red keffiyeh, killed two Israeli Embassy employees outside the Capital Jewish Museum, pleaded not guilty, and is scheduled to appear before Judge Randolph Moss on June 30.