CASA GRANDE, Ariz. — A man has been charged with a hate crime after he allegedly set a synagogue in Casa Grande on fire in March, according to authorities.

The United States Attorney's Office said Everardo Gregorio, 31, has been charged with obstruction of the free exercise of religious beliefs by fire.

According to an indictment, Gregorio allegedly burned down Khal Chasidim, a synagogue in Casa Grande, on March 3.

"The portion of the synagogue that was destroyed in the fire included the place where the Jewish community worshipped, as well as a kosher grocery store and restaurant that operated out of the building," the U.S. Attorney's Office said in a news release.

Gregorio is also facing an arson charge brought against him by the Pinal County Attorney's Office.

The investigation is b

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