June 18, 2026: Raisin Company Heir Charged With Antisemitic Hate Crime Against Rabbi Praying in Pacific Palisades

Bruce Lion faces nine years, four months in state prison if convicted as charged

LOS ANGELES - The heir to one of California's largest raisin companies was charged with a felony hate crime for allegedly threatening to kill a rabbi at his home in Pacific Palisades as he led a Sabbath evening prayer service.

"Hate has no place in Los Angeles County. My office is aggressively prosecuting these disturbing acts that tear at the fabric of our society," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. "Los Angeles County is experiencing an alarming increase in hate crimes, with record-high antisemitic offenses and unprecedented levels of crimes targeting individuals based on their religion, race, nationality, gender, or sexual orientation. Our county is home to hundreds of cultures and traditions, and we will prosecute any crime motivated by prejudice against them."

Bruce Alfred Lion (dob 2/25/62) was charged in case 26ARCF01183 with three felony hate crimes: one count of violation of civil rights and two counts of criminal threats.

On June 5, at approximately 8 p.m., Lion allegedly stood on the balcony of his Pacific Palisades home and shouted antisemitic threats at his next-door neighbor, the rabbi leading the Shabbat prayer service.

Lion was arrested on June 13. His arraignment is set for today in Department 30 of the Airport Courthouse. The Court set bail at $225,000 per the People's request.

If convicted as charged, he faces up to nine years and four months in state prison.

The case is being prosecuted by the Airport Branch Office and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department's West Los Angeles Division.

The charges in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.