Albany woman charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS made her first appearance in federal court after authorities alleged she planned to detonate an explosive at the New York State Capitol and then flee to Syria.
Federal officials said Jessica Bowie, 35, of Albany, intended to target public officials and cause extensive damage at the Capitol complex. According to court filings, she discussed killing state senators during a meeting and destroying parts of the building before escaping to ISIS-controlled territory.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said the case reflects continued efforts by federal authorities and investigators to prevent attacks and prosecute those who plan them. First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III for the Northern District of New York praised the work of the FBI and partner agencies, saying the case would be pursued aggressively in court.
Matt Fodor, operations director of the FBI National Security Branch, said the Bureau identified and disrupted the alleged plot, noting the defendant had sworn allegiance to ISIS and expressed an interest in further acts of terrorism.
Albany woman charged after alleged plot at New York State Capitol
Authorities said Bowie was taken into custody on Aug. 19 after obtaining what she believed was an explosive device to use against the New York State Capitol and state senators. Investigators alleged she carried out reconnaissance of the Capitol grounds, made multiple visits, and took photographs of the building while discussing her intention to inflict mass casualties and damage.
According to the complaint, Bowie also posted anti-American messages online, including praise for the Sept. 11 attacks, and said she intended to poison individuals when she could travel. Officials said she recorded and shared an oath of allegiance to ISIS.
The investigation was led by the FBI with assistance from the U.S. Secret Service, New York State Police, and the Albany Police Department. Trial Attorney Ryan D. White of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Joseph Hartunian for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.
The investigation was led by the FBI with assistance from the U.S. Secret Service, New York State Police, and the Albany Police Department. Trial Attorney Ryan D. White of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Joseph Hartunian for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.