A 35-year-old Albany woman appeared in federal court Thursday after authorities accused her of plotting to attack the New York State Capitol and kill state senators.
Jessica Bowie was charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Bowie was taken into custody Wednesday, Aug. 19, after authorities said she obtained what she believed was an explosive device.
What is Bowie accused of doing?
According to a federal criminal complaint, Bowie allegedly planned to use an explosive device to attack the New York State Capitol while state senators were meeting.
Investigators said Bowie had also planned to flee to Syria and join ISIS-controlled territory after the attack.
Authorities said
Bowie made several visits to the Capitol grounds and photographed the building as part of what investigators described as reconnaissance.
According to the complaint, Bowie described her alleged plans to investigators, including a desire to destroy as much of the Capitol as possible and kill senators while they were meeting.
The allegations have not been proven in court.
How was Bowie arrested?
Authorities said Bowie was apprehended Aug. 19 as she took possession of what she believed was an explosive device.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Secret Service, New York State Police and Albany Police Department.
Officials said the investigation prevented Bowie from carrying out the alleged attack.
What is the ISIS connection?
According to the criminal complaint, investigators identified social media accounts allegedly belonging to Bowie that contained anti-American statements.
Authorities also said Bowie recorded and shared online a "Bayah," or formal oath of allegiance, to ISIS.
The complaint alleges Bowie had expressed an intention to travel to ISIS-controlled territory in Syria after carrying out the planned attack.
What is Bowie charged with?
Bowie is charged with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, according to the Justice Department.
She made her initial appearance in federal court Thursday.
The case is being prosecuted by attorneys with the Justice Department's National Security Division and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York.
Gov. Hochul releases statement
“Today, the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI announced the arrest of an individual who allegedly plotted an attack on the New York State Capitol. I’m grateful to the FBI for leading this investigation and to the New York State Police for their work to apprehend this dangerous individual.
Earlier this year, amid a rise in political violence and threats against public officials, we took steps to strengthen security at the State Capitol and across state government.
While there is no immediate threat at this time, we will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to protect New Yorkers and keep our communities safe.”
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Woman charged in alleged ISIS plot to attack New York State Capitol. What we know now
