- The FBI has foiled an alleged ISIS-inspired bomb plot targeting the New York State Capitol, leading to the arrest of a suspect named Bowie.
- FBI special agent Joshua Parker led a sting operation to arrest Bowie after she was identified as a suspect.
- During the investigation, Bowie met with informants and allegedly expressed interest in targeting the White House.
- Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the arrest, stating there is no immediate threat and that they will continue working with law enforcement partners to protect New Yorkers.
- Bowie was linked to messages in Arabic that included statements like, “Praise to be Allah for September 11th” and “When I can migrate, I will poison these infidels.”
Jessica Bowie, 35, was arrested by the FBI for allegedly plotting to bomb the New York State Capitol, expressing support for ISIS. Bowie, who converted to Islam five years ago, reportedly made an oath of allegiance to ISIS in May.
An FBI informant communicated with Bowie from July 16 to Aug. 17, during which she expressed her desire to target the Capitol, located less than two miles from her home. Bowie allegedly walked around the Capitol five times and messaged others in Arabic about her intentions, including praising the September 11 attacks.
Bowie is charged with one count of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum penalty of $250,000 and 20 years in prison. Governor Kathy Hochul stated, “While there is no immediate threat at this time, we will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to protect New Yorkers.”5
FBI agent Joshua Parker led the sting operation that identified Bowie as a suspect, revealing her plans to target not only the Capitol but potentially other prominent buildings, including the White House.234
“The suspect, identified as Bowie, allegedly messaged in Arabic praising September 11th and threatening to poison 'infidels,' and met with informants while indicating interest in targeting the White House. FBI special agent Joshua Parker of the Joint Terrorism Task Force in Albany led the sting operation.”
