New Jersey man charged for attempting to aid ISIS, planned US attack on synagogues

Mohamed Sagha, a 22-year-old resident of Wayne, New Jersey, faces federal charges for allegedly attempting to support the Islamic State (ISIS) and planning attacks within the United States. According to the Department of Justice and FBI, Sagha was involved in online discussions with ISIS supporters where potential attacks on U.S. houses of worship were discussed.

Prosecutors allege that Sagha met with a confidential source and expressed his intent to aid another supporter in attacking a religious site. He also allegedly shared photographs and videos of National Guard facilities and Jewish sites located near his residence, indicating contemplation of his own violent acts. "As alleged, the defendant sought to support ISIS and expressed interest in violence directed at targets within the United States, including places of worship," stated New Jersey District US Attorney Robert Frazer.

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As alleged, the defendant sought to support ISIS and expressed interest in violence directed at targets within the United States, including places of worship. Those who seek to advance the objectives of foreign terrorist organizations should expect a swift and coordinated response from federal law enforcement.

Sagha's alleged radicalization efforts extended to an attempt to join ISIS in Syria. In March, he reportedly traveled to Canada as part of an effort to reach Syria, but he did not complete the journey and returned to the United States. "The defendant allegedly wanted to attack targets in the United States in support of ISIS and its hateful ideology, but the FBI detected and put a stop to his violent plans," said FBI Counterterrorism Division Assistant Director Donald Holstead.

Federal law enforcement agencies emphasize their commitment to pursuing individuals who attempt to harm Americans or provide material support to terrorist organizations. The FBI and the Justice Department are working to ensure that Sagha faces justice for his alleged actions.

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The defendant allegedly wanted to attack targets in the United States in support of ISIS and its hateful ideology, but the FBI detected and put a stop to his violent plans. This should be a stark reminder to the American people of the FBI’s resolve to pursue anyone who tries to harm Americans and provide material support to terrorist organizations, and we will work with our Justice Department partners to make sure they face justice.