Concordia bomb threat suspect gets bail

Judge attaches strict conditions in granting release

The man charged in connection with recent bomb threats at Concordia University has been released on bail as he awaits the next steps in his case.

Hisham Saadi, 47, is facing charges of inciting terrorism fears, transmitting death threats, and mischief, after bomb threats forced the university to close down for the better part of March 1.

Several conditions were attached to Saadi’s release, including that he not communicate with or be within 100 metres of any universities, and that he not use the Internet unless he’s supervised.

Saadi agreed to hand over his passport to authorities and observe a strict curfew. Two people agreed to put up a combined $10,000 deposit to guarantee his continued appearance in court.

As part of the conditions of his release, Quebec Court Judge Nathalie Fafard also ordered Saadi to be evaluated by a psychiatrist within the next 48 hours and to undergo a court-ordered evaluation at the Philippe Pinel Institute.

Meanwhile, the evidence presented throughout the two-day bail hearing is covered by a publication ban.

A close friend of Saadi’s, who has asked not to be identified for fear of repercussions, said the accused is surrounded by friends and family in Montreal who are prepared to do everything necessary to support him.

In terms of his morale, “this has been very difficult for him,” the friend told reporters after Friday’s hearing.

“This is the first time he has so many people pointing fingers at him.”

Concordia University was evacuated and closed for the day on March 1 after several media outlets received a letter threatening explosives would be detonated at two of the school’s downtown buildings.

A police search of the buildings found no explosive devices.

Saadi’s case returns to court on April 20.