The man accused of firebombing a group of peaceful demonstrators seeking to raise awareness about Israeli hostages still held by Hamas made his first appearance in federal court Friday where he was advised of the hate crime charge against him — and the possible penalties that he faces.

Mohamed Soliman, the right side of his face burned, was shackled as he appeared in federal court in Denver. He wore olive-green jail clothing and was given a headset used to translate the proceedings into Arabic. A U.S. marshal was seated with him.

The 45-year-old seemed to be relaxed as Magistrate Judge Timothy P. O’Hara discussed the federal case against him with prosecutors and Soliman’s public defenders. Soliman faces life in prison if convicted.

Soliman repeatedly answered O’Hara’s questions with a s

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