In a shocking development, new information has emerged about the suspect charged in the shooting of three Palestinian college students in Vermont last weekend. According to a report, Jason J. Eaton had previously been accused of harassing an ex-girlfriend in New York state several years ago, although no charges were filed.

The report, obtained by the Associated Press, reveals that Eaton's ex-girlfriend in Dewitt, New York, had claimed in 2019 that she received a series of sexually explicit texts, emails, and phone calls from Eaton. While the messages were not considered threatening, she requested that the police intervene and ask him to stop. She also reported that Eaton had driven past her home twice on that evening, catching the attention of an officer present during a conversation.

Upon being pulled over by the police, Eaton allegedly expressed the belief that his ex-girlfriend still wanted to see him. However, an officer explicitly informed him that the woman desired no contact, which Eaton reportedly understood. No further action was taken at the time.

These revelations come as Eaton, 48, remains behind bars without bail after pleading not guilty to three counts of attempted second-degree murder in Burlington, Vermont. The seriousness of this case has prompted U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to announce that federal authorities are investigating whether the shooting could be considered a hate crime.

Furthermore, it has been noted that Eaton's name appeared in 37 Syracuse police reports spanning from 2007 to 2021. According to police spokesperson Lt. Matthew Malinowski, Eaton was listed as either a victim or the person filing the complaint in 21 of these reports, which covered incidents ranging from domestic violence to larceny. However, Eaton was never identified as a suspect.

Recent events have shed light on Eaton's personal circumstances. Having lost his job with CUSO Financial, a California-based company, just days before the shooting, Eaton had been unemployed since November 8, as confirmed by company spokesperson Jeff Eller.

Investigators have also discovered that Eaton legally purchased the firearm used in the shooting. When approached by officers, Eaton willingly greeted them at his apartment door with his hands raised, confessing that he had been awaiting their arrival. Subsequent searches conducted by federal agents resulted in the discovery of the gun within Eaton's residence.

As the investigation into the Vermont shooting continues, communities across the United States remain on high alert amidst a surge in threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab populations since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October.

It is imperative that law enforcement agencies and authorities thoroughly investigate and determine the motive behind this tragic incident, ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families affected by this senseless act of violence.