Woman Charged with Terrorism for Allegedly Plotting to Bomb New York State Capitol

A New York woman is facing terrorism charges for allegedly plotting to bomb the state's Capitol building, according to U.S. authorities. Jessica Bowie, 35, is accused of seeking to provide material support to the Islamic State (IS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Court documents reveal that Bowie allegedly told an FBI informant of her intent to destroy the New York State Capitol in Albany, the seat of state government.

Prosecutors allege that Bowie, who reportedly converted to Islam and became an online supporter of IS, also posted anti-American messages and content supporting the 9/11 attacks. She is accused of seeking instructions on how to create explosives and of planning to detonate a bomb during a Senate session. According to the criminal complaint, Bowie discussed her plan to destroy the building and kill senators, as well as to destroy important documents.

Further details from the court documents indicate Bowie considered posing as a delivery person to gain access to the facility and plant the bomb before attempting to flee to Syria. She was arrested by the FBI on August 19 and, upon her arrest, reportedly told agents, "You guys know I'm hopeless."

Bowie is scheduled to appear in court on August 20 to face the charges. The New York State Capitol building is located near the Canadian border and serves as the meeting place for both houses of the state legislature.