US charges woman with plot to blow up New York State Capitol

United States authorities have charged Jessica Bowie, 35, with a terrorism offense for allegedly plotting to attack the New York State Capitol. Court filings reveal that Bowie, who reportedly converted to Islam and became an online supporter of the Islamic State group, expressed a desire to "destroy" the state capitol buildings and harm lawmakers.

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I wanted to destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators while they are meeting. I want them to lose a lot of important documents as well.

The New York State Capitol, located in Albany, serves as the center of state government. According to court documents, Bowie allegedly communicated her intentions to an FBI informant, expressing support for designated foreign terrorist organizations and seeking guidance on manufacturing explosives. She reportedly planned to observe the capitol's security measures by having "picnics by the capital."

Bowie allegedly told the informant that she "wanted to destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators while they are meeting." She also mentioned obtaining "anarchist literature" for potential tips. The complaint details her alleged plan to pose as a food delivery driver to gain access and plant a bomb, with the intention of fleeing to Syria afterward.

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I would make it a point to have picnics by the capital to observe.

Authorities arrested Bowie on August 19 after she had acquired a DoorDash bag and components for a bomb, including nails intended for shrapnel. She allegedly told agents, "There’s no helping me, you guys know enough." Bowie was scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. Her attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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There’s no helping me, you guys know enough.