A man charged with vandalizing synagogues and schools by allegedly spreading urine and feces has been ordered to stay in custody until his trial.
Ionut-Cristian Bold, 37, who does not have a permanent residence, pleaded not guilty to six counts of racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage.
The Romanian national appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Monday, facing multiple charges related to incidents that occurred in north London between April and September.
The accusations involve damage to the gates, fences, and walls of synagogues.
Additionally, Mr. Bold pleaded not guilty to one count of racially or religiously aggravated harassment without violence, three counts of criminal damage, and one count related to possessing an item with the intent to destroy or damage property.
Before entering his pleas, Mr. Bold made an unusual statement in court, claiming, “Mark Zuckerberg is David of Israel. Prince Harry is Henry VIII.”
The court noted that he has no prior criminal record and was residing in a squat when he was apprehended.
Prosecutor Penny Ferguson mentioned that his Romanian passport has not been retrieved, raising concerns that he might attempt to flee the country.
His defense team requested that he be assessed by a mental health professional.
They also pointed out that Mr. Bold is self-employed, has lived in the UK for 11 years with the right to remain indefinitely, and fathered a child in China with his partner.
Deputy District Judge Rebecca Saillet informed him that she would keep him in custody due to concerns about his mental well-being and for his own safety.
Mr. Bold is scheduled to appear at Harrow Crown Court on October 13.