The FBI has taken into custody a 35-year-old woman named Jessica Bowie, who is suspected of intending to carry out a bomb attack on the New York State Capitol and elected officials, in a plot inspired by ISIS.
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She was detained on Wednesday and appeared for the first time before the Federal Court on Thursday. The prosecution accuses her of attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which is designated as a foreign terrorist organization.
According to the indictment, Bowie had sworn allegiance to ISIS and began planning the attack during the month of July. Authorities suspect she had repeatedly surveilled the Capitol up close and had photographed the building and its surrounding areas.
The FBI also released footage from the investigation, where the suspect is seen conducting surveillance near the Capitol. In one of them, authorities identify her as the person in black clothing who was photographing the building.
Investigators say she had purchased materials she believed could be used for a bomb and had sought help to carry out the attack. As part of an undercover operation, FBI agents posed as individuals linked to ISIS and communicated with her about the plan.
American authorities said agents delivered an explosive device and an inoperable firearm to her before arresting her.
According to the investigation, her goal was to attack the Capitol while state senators were inside the building. Authorities add that Bowie had also discussed other possible targets in the future.
Authorities assessed the plan as serious and dangerous but stressed that it was discovered and neutralized before it could be carried out.
