A 35-year-old woman has been arrested in New York over allegations that she planned an explosives attack on the US Capitol and sought to kill members of Congress.
Jessica Bowie had been under investigation for more than a month, according to court documents. The FBI said investigators uncovered evidence suggesting she had expressed support for Islamic State (IS) and had communicated with people suspected of links to the militant group.
Authorities began monitoring her online activity in July. Investigators allege that she searched for information related to making an explosive device, obtained materials that could be used to construct one and arranged to acquire a firearm and ammunition.
Court documents also allege that Bowie visited the Capitol at least five times, taking photographs and observing the building.
An FBI official in Albany, Craig L. Tremaroli, said the investigation involved more than an alleged plan to kill lawmakers and included concerns about an attempt to seriously disrupt government operations.
Bowie has been charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to IS, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by the US government.
According to investigators, she had expressed a desire to cause extensive damage to the Capitol and kill senators while they were in session.
They also allege that she had considered Albany City Hall as an initial target before shifting her focus to the Capitol and members of the Senate, whom she reportedly blamed for laws she considered offensive to Islam.
Other alleged targets
Investigators say Bowie had discussed leaving the United States after the alleged attack and returning later to carry out further attacks.
She is also accused of discussing a possible attack in Times Square on New Year’s Eve, as well as an attack on the White House and the US president.
Authorities have not said when the alleged Capitol attack was supposed to take place.
Bowie was arrested on Wednesday. As of Thursday, authorities had not said whether she had retained a lawyer.
Security measures strengthened
New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office said security measures at government facilities, including the state Capitol, had been strengthened since the beginning of the year amid increased concerns over threats and political violence against public officials.
Officials said there was currently no immediate threat, but that state authorities would continue working with law-enforcement agencies to protect the public and government buildings.
The allegations against Bowie have not been proven in court, and she is presumed innocent unless found guilty.
