The FBI foiled an alleged ISIS-inspired terrorist plot to bomb the New York State Capitol in Albany and target lawmakers, according to a criminal complaint filed Thursday. The suspect, 35-year-old Albany resident Jessica Bowie, allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and spent weeks planning the attack, according to a Fox News report.
1+According to court documents, Bowie, who converted to Islam approximately five years ago, conducted surveillance around the State Capitol building as part of her preparations for the alleged attack. She also purchased materials intended for constructing an explosive device and explored ways to conceal it. According to the criminal complaint, Bowie discussed hiding the explosive inside a DoorDash delivery bag in an attempt to bring it into the Capitol area and target lawmakers.
1+During the planning, Bowie communicated with an FBI source whom she believed to be an ISIS operative. Court documents allege that she asked the source to assist her in preparing explosives for the attack. On Wednesday, Bowie met with FBI sources who provided her with an inert explosive device and a disabled handgun.
Authorities arrested her shortly after she took possession of the items. Details of the alleged plot were disclosed in the criminal complaint filed against Bowie, which outlines both her alleged preparations for the attack and her communications with the individual she believed was an ISIS operative.