In a disturbing series of events, Matthew Alan Lehigh, a 31-year-old Oregon resident, has admitted guilt to two federal hate crime charges in Idaho. Lehigh's actions targeted individuals he perceived to be part of the LGBTQ+ community, involving physical assault, threats, and the use of his vehicle as a weapon.

The incidents began at a Boise public library in October. Lehigh physically attacked a transgender library employee, striking them with his fist. When another employee intervened, Lehigh fled to the parking lot, where he attempted to run over the intervening employee with his car. The employee narrowly escaped injury.

Days later, Lehigh targeted two women in a Boise park whom he assumed to be lesbians based on their appearance. He hurled slurs and threats at them, then drove his car towards them, forcing them to jump out of the way to avoid being hit. His vehicle collided with one of the women's cars.

As part of his plea agreement, Lehigh also confessed to three additional incidents, including setting fire to a Pride flag displayed on the porch of a same-sex couple's home. This admission further underscores the targeted nature of his actions against the LGBTQ+ community.

The FBI has strongly condemned Lehigh's actions, emphasizing the devastating impact of hate crimes on individuals and communities. Lehigh's sentencing is pending.