excerpts from thread, with paragraphs snipped:
Abdul Walid Hamid of Hayward appeared before Judge Christine Moruza yesterday for an arraignment on charges of battery, grand theft, terrorist threats and exhibition of a deadly weapon. The arraignment was postponed until 9 a.m. today, however, as he required a translator.
Hamid, 22, who works at a kiosk in the mall, was arrested by Pleasanton police Nov. 4 after he reportedly yelled "Allah is power" and "Islam is great," while holding a pen in a fist over his head and then allegedly grabbing and breaking a crucifix off a man's neck. Witnesses also said he had been shouting anti-Christian comments, according to police.
Hamid's family members, who declined to give their names, say it was all a misunderstanding. Outside the courtroom, they said Hamid was provoked when the customer with the necklace reportedly called him a derogatory name. They said Hamid put his hand on the customer's shoulder, asking him not to use that word. When the customer pulled away, the family said Hamid's hand came into contact with the necklace and it accidentally broke.
His family also said that he's only been in the country a few months and is still learning the language and the laws.