An online fundraiser for a 21-year-old Montana man accused of shoving an Indian man and telling him to “go back to your country” has raised nearly $30,000, attracting widespread attention and sparking controversy.

Jaxton Tayte Collins is facing one felony count of malicious intimidation or harassment of civil or human rights and one misdemeanor assault charge following an alleged confrontation in downtown Helena, Montana.

According to court documents, the incident occurred on August 7, when a man was walking with friends near the city’s Walking Mall. An individual wearing an orange shirt and a large cross necklace allegedly approached one of the man’s friends, who is of Indian descent and was wearing a head covering.

The suspect allegedly shoved the man with both hands before telling him to return to his home country.

Witnesses reportedly described the encounter as frightening and characterized it as an attack.

When police arrived, they located Collins nearby. According to reports, he acknowledged that he had been drinking at a local bar and admitted making the remark because he was angry. However, he denied physically pushing the alleged victim.

Collins has pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The case attracted further attention after an online fundraising campaign was launched to help cover his legal expenses. The campaign portrayed Collins as someone facing criminal prosecution over his remarks and attracted donations from supporters who argued that the case raised questions about freedom of speech.

By November 3, the fundraiser had reportedly collected approximately $28,400 toward its $40,000 target.

The campaign also drew support from controversial organizations, including the Big Sky Active Club, which has been identified by the Anti-Defamation League as part of a broader network of white supremacist active clubs.

The group’s involvement prompted criticism from civil rights advocates. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) condemned the alleged attack and expressed concern about the financial and public support being offered to Collins.

CAIR argued that people should be able to move freely in public spaces without facing harassment or violence because of their racial, religious or cultural background.

The legal case has also raised questions about the distinction between protected speech and conduct that may constitute a criminal offense. While offensive remarks alone can raise First Amendment questions, prosecutors must establish the elements of the charges brought against Collins.

If convicted of the felony charge, Collins could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

His next court appearance is scheduled for April 8, 2027. Until the legal proceedings conclude, he remains presumed innocent.

What began as an alleged confrontation on a Montana street has now developed into a wider controversy involving online fundraising, civil rights groups and competing arguments over free speech and alleged hate-motivated violence.

Source: DAILYMAIL