A 35-year-old Albany woman has been charged with allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired attack on the New York State Capitol. Reuters reported that federal authorities arrested Jessica Bowie after she took possession of what she believed was an explosive device, according to the U.S. Justice Department.
Prosecutors allege Bowie intended to use the device at the Capitol to kill public officials and damage as much of the building as possible. Reuters cited Justice Department officials who said she had visited the Capitol grounds, photographed the building and discussed plans to flee to ISIS-controlled territory in Syria after the proposed attack.
Authorities also allege that Bowie expressed anti-American views online and celebrated previous terrorist attacks. The accusations are contained in a criminal complaint and have not been proven in court. A lawyer for Bowie could not immediately be reached for comment.
Following the arrest, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said security was strengthened at the Capitol and other government locations. She added that officials were not aware of any immediate threat to the public.
