A man accused of setting a woman on fire inside a Chicago commuter train has been ordered to be held behind bars pending trial on a federal terrorism charge he faces in the case.
A federal judge ordered 50-year-old Lawrence Reed held after prosecutors outlined his extensive criminal history dating back more than three decades.
The attack Monday night on Chicago’s Blue Line L train has drawn national attention, primarily because the victim appeared to be targeted at random. Investigators say she was sitting on the train scrolling through her phone when she was approached from behind by Reed, doused with gasoline, and set ablaze seconds later.
Police arrested Reed the next morning, and federal prosecutors charged him with one count of committing a terrorist attack, which carries up to a life sentence. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois has stated that if the victim dies from her injuries, Reed could face the death penalty.
Reed has spent 32 years in and out of the criminal justice system, starting when he was about 18 years old, and has been arrested 72 times. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Bond argued during the detention hearing for Reed that he is a “clear danger to the community.”
Bond emphasized Reed's criminal behavior has escalated over the years. He mentioned more than 60 criminal cases filed against Reed since 1993, ranging from minor offenses to serious charges, including at least 15 cases of battery and assault.
Reed is also facing an active charge of aggravated battery after allegedly assaulting a hospital social worker in August, causing serious injuries. His next court date for that charge is December 4.
Currently representing himself in the federal case, Reed has agreed to be detained, expressing his belief that he does not feel safe in society and is a target. Surveillance cameras captured the attack on the woman, providing authorities with critical evidence.
The victim's identity has not been released and her family has requested privacy during this challenging time as they focus on her recovery.
