DEARBORN, Michigan, United States: Dearborn Sharia law claims became the focus of a heated City Council meeting Tuesday after Pastor Lorenzo Sewell accused local officials of favouring Islamic law.
Sewell, pastor of 180 Church, said the city was no longer operating solely under American law. His remarks came amid anti-Islam protests targeting Dearborn’s Muslim community and elected officials.
Sewell linked his accusation to an earlier altercation involving political activist Jake Lang at the city’s annual Arbaeen March.
Lang was punched and chased by counterprotesters. Dearborn Police said officers arrested one person during the incident.
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The suspect was held without bond while the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office considered charges. Police also asked the public to help identify others involved in unlawful conduct.
Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud rejected claims that Muslims receive special treatment under a separate legal system.
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He said portrayals of Dearborn as a city “overtaken” by Muslims also ignored Christian residents and other faith communities.
Sewell’s allegations regarding Sharia law do not refer to any enacted local legislation.
