A woman has been arrested after federal authorities alleged she planned an ISIS-inspired attack targeting the New York State Capitol in Albany.
According to ABC News, 35-year-old Jessica Bowie was taken into custody Wednesday following an FBI investigation. In a criminal complaint unsealed Thursday, investigators allege Bowie pledged allegiance to ISIS through online communications and began planning an attack on the Capitol in July.
Authorities said Bowie converted to Islam approximately five years ago. The criminal complaint alleges she later participated in online conversations with unidentified individuals who had also pledged allegiance to ISIS.
Investigators Say She Conducted Surveillance and Purchased Bomb Materials
According to the FBI, Bowie allegedly discussed her plans with confidential informants over the course of several weeks. Federal investigators allege she conducted surveillance of the New York State Capitol, including taking photographs of the government building.
The complaint also states that on Aug. 5, Bowie allegedly purchased materials from a hardware store that investigators believed could be used to construct an explosive device.
Authorities further allege she continued discussing the planned attack with FBI informants.
Complaint Alleges She Wanted to Target Lawmakers
According to the criminal complaint, the informants met with Bowie on Wednesday and provided her with an inactive explosive device, a handgun, and instructions on how to detonate the device as part of the undercover operation.
Federal prosecutors allege Bowie told the informants she wanted “to destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators while they are meeting.”
The allegations are contained in a criminal complaint, and Bowie has not been convicted of the charges. She is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The FBI said the investigation remains ongoing.