Georgia Man Dressed as Nazi for Halloween Arrested for Assaulting Woman, Raises Over $17,000 for Legal Defense
ATHENS, GEORGIA — A 33-year-old man identified as Kenneth Morgan was arrested in Athens after allegedly assaulting a woman with a glass beer mug while wearing a detailed Nazi uniform for Halloween. The incident, which took place outside a local bar, has sparked outrage — especially after a fundraising campaign raised more than $17,000 to support his legal defense.
Arrest Follows Violent Halloween Incident
According to Daily Loud and witness reports shared on social media, the altercation occurred outside a bar in downtown Athens, Georgia. Witnesses say Morgan, dressed in a World War II-era Nazi SS costume, was seen arguing with a woman before allegedly striking her with a glass beer mug, causing visible injuries.
Police arrived at the scene shortly after the altercation, arresting Morgan, who was still wearing the offensive costume at the time of his detention. Photos circulating online show him in a black Nazi uniform adorned with a swastika armband as officers escort him from the area.
Fundraiser Sparks Controversy
Following his arrest, a fundraising campaign was launched online to cover Morgan’s legal fees and other related expenses. The campaign quickly drew widespread attention, amassing over $17,000 in contributions within days.
Critics have called the donations “disturbing,” arguing that the support appears to validate or excuse violent and hateful behavior. One social media user wrote, “Imagine getting $17,000 for dressing like a Nazi and assaulting a woman. This country needs to reevaluate its priorities.”
Others, however, defended the donations as a matter of due process, claiming that “everyone deserves legal representation.”
Authorities Condemn Violence and Hate Imagery
Local officials and advocacy groups condemned both the assault and the use of Nazi symbolism, which is illegal in several countries but protected under U.S. free speech laws.
“This incident represents not only an act of violence but also a symbol of hate,” said a spokesperson for a Georgia-based anti-extremism nonprofit. “There is no place in our communities for this kind of behavior — costume or not.”
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department confirmed Morgan’s arrest and said the investigation remains ongoing. The victim’s condition has not been publicly disclosed, but authorities say she received immediate medical attention following the incident.
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Public Reaction: “Outrageous and Unacceptable”
The story has generated intense backlash online, with many questioning how a person dressed in a Nazi uniform could attract financial sympathy after committing an alleged assault.
“People aren’t just angry about the violence — they’re angry about what this says about our culture,” one Athens resident commented on social media. “There’s nothing funny or harmless about dressing as a Nazi.”
Others noted that the incident reflects a broader problem of individuals using shock-value costumes for attention, often crossing ethical lines and, in this case, resulting in criminal behavior.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Morgan faces assault and battery charges, and authorities have not ruled out additional charges related to hate intimidation or disorderly conduct. His bond status has not been made public.
Legal experts say that while the costume itself does not constitute a criminal offense, it could influence public perception and jury attitudes during trial proceedings.
As outrage continues to spread, local organizations in Athens are reportedly planning community discussions on hate symbols, free expression, and accountability in the wake of the incident.
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Naperville is a community with stories that deserve to be told — both the serious ones about safety and justice, and the lighter ones that capture our culture and daily life. I focus on covering crime reports and court updates while also highlighting the traditions, events, and social trends that shape who we are. Through my reporting, I want to give readers a fuller picture of Naperville — the challenges we face and the character that keeps our city strong.