The FBI has prevented an ISIS-inspired attack on the New York State Capitol before a bomb could be planted inside the building.
Jessica Bowie, 35, of Albany was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS.
Federal prosecutors allege that Bowie spent more than a month planning an attack intended to kill state lawmakers and disrupt New York’s government.
Authorities described that Bowie repeatedly visited the Capitol grounds, photographed the area, studied security measures, and sought guidance from an FBI confidential source—whom she believed was an ISIS facilitator—on building an explosive device. Federal agents have monitored Bowie for over a month following online accounts linked to her expressing support for terrorism. Investigators learned around July 16 that she intended to attack the Capitol.
The affidavit states that Bowie conducted at least five reconnaissance trips to the grounds between July 21 and August 9. Investigators also observed her purchasing items on a bomb-making list at a hardware store, including long nails allegedly meant to become shrapnel.
Authorities report that Bowie arranged to obtain a firearm and ammunition for potential use against police or security personnel. The alleged plan developed while the state Legislature was in recess. Prosecutors state that Bowie targeted senators upon their return, turning the legislative calendar into part of her operational strategy.
Bowie was arrested Wednesday, weeks before the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. No defense attorney was listed in the initial court record reviewed by federal officials, and the public defender’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Court documents indicate that Bowie converted to Islam about five years ago and later used the name “Aisha Saif.” The FBI linked social media accounts to her that allegedly praised terrorism, celebrated the September 11 attacks, and pledged allegiance to ISIS in English and Arabic. Prosecutors state that Bowie chose the Capitol because state senators passed laws she considered offensive to Islam. Albany City Hall was reportedly considered as an alternative target.
The alleged delivery method involved concealing a bomb inside a DoorDash food-delivery bag to be brought into the Capitol while senators were meeting. Bowie allegedly discussed maximizing bloodshed and using the attack to send shockwaves through the American political system. The complaint describes preparations including reconnaissance, bomb components, and a backup firearm.
Federal officials confirmed that Bowie did not receive a functioning bomb and that authorities intervened before any immediate threat existed. Authorities report that Bowie’s ideal target was the White House with President Trump inside. FBI Albany Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli stated she also discussed fleeing the country and potentially returning for attacks on the White House or Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
Tremaroli said Bowie allegedly intended to kill lawmakers and cause a complete disruption of government. New York Governor Kathy Hochul thanked the FBI and New York State Police, stating there is no immediate threat and that the state will continue cooperating with law enforcement to protect New Yorkers and public officials.
Bowie faces a single federal charge of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The allegations have not been proven in court, and she remains presumed innocent until convicted.
