On January 7, 2015, Omar Faraj Saeed Al Hardan, 24, a Palestinian born in Iraq, who came to the United States of America reportedly as a refugee, was arrested in Houston, Texas and charged with three counts of material support to the ISIS terrorist organization. His indictment states that Omar Faraj Saeed Al Hardan entered the United States as a refugee on or about November 2, 2009. It states that he lied on his naturalization form about his associations with terrorist groups, and he also received machine gun training as part of travels with terror groups.
R.E.A.L. also has a report on Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab arrested in Sacramento, California on a related case.
A separate Houston News Channel 2 television report states: “Channel 2 Investigates obtained the city of Houston limousine driver’s permit that Omar Faraj Saeed Al Hardan obtained in 2014. It lists him as a ‘legal resident.'” Channel 2 also reported “Other arrests were made in Milwaukee in a separate but connected case, Channel 2 has learned. The Houston arrest is part of a federal terrorism-related investigation. Al Hardan is expected to face three federal charges, including providing support to terrorists.” “KPRC reported Thursday evening that the Texas suspect has lived in Houston for several years and was in contact with people in Milwaukee and Sacramento. The case involved plotting to get people currently in the United States moved overseas, specifically the Middle East.”
Omar Faraj Saeed Al Hardan, 24, a Palestinian born in Iraq, has been charged in a three-count indictment alleging that he attempted to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson of the Southern District of Texas, Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI’s Houston Division and Special Agent in Charge Brian M. Moskowitz of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Houston made the announcement.
The three-count indictment was returned on Jan. 6, 2016, and was unsealed today. He will have his initial appearance tomorrow at 10:00 a.m CST in Houston.
Al Hardan entered the United States as an Iraqi refugee on or about Nov. 2, 2009. He was granted legal permanent residence status on or about Aug. 22, 2011, and resides in Houston.
He is charged with one count each of attempting to provide material support to ISIL, procurement of citizenship or naturalization unlawfully and making false statements.
The indictment alleges that Al Hardan attempted to provide material support and resources, including training, expert advice and assistance, and personnel – specifically himself – to a known foreign terrorist organization. According to the allegations, he also knowingly responded, certified and swore untruthfully on his formal application when applying to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. He allegedly represented that he was not associated with a terrorist organization when, in fact, he associated with members and sympathizers of ISIL throughout 2014, according to the charges. The indictment further alleges that during an interview in October 2015, Al Hardan falsely represented that he had never received any type of weapons training, when he allegedly received automatic machine gun training.
The charge of attempting to provide material support to terrorists carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charge of false citizenship procurement carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison (if the offense was committed to facilitate an act of international terrorism). The charge of making false statements carries a maximum sentence of eight years in prison. If convicted, any potential sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and HSI with the assistance of the Houston Police Department. Trial Attorney Kashyap Patel of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section is prosecuting the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Ralph Imperato of the Southern District of Texas.
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) stands in support of our universal human rights for all, and we stand in defiance against those, including terrorist and hate groups, which seek to attack such universal human rights, dignity, and security for all.
We cannot support human rights, if we also do not reject those who seek to rob our brothers and sisters in humanity of their lives and security, which are also our universal human rights.
On January 7, 2015, Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab, 23, a Palestinian born in Iraq, who came to the United States of America reportedly as a refugee, was arrested in Sacramento, California and charged with making false statements in a terrorist investigation. The U.S. Department of Justice states Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab was a supporter of a terrorist rival group to ISIS, “Ansar al-Islam.”
His criminal complaint states that Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab entered the United States as a refugee from Syria in October 2012. It states that “he remains in refugee status to the present date, and as such, he is subject to the jurisdiction of USCIS for purposes of this offense.” The criminal complaint states that Al-Jayab lied to the USCIS on whether he had been a member of or supported a “rebel group, militia, or insurgent organization.” The criminal complaint states that he planned to return to Syria to support a terrorist group, either through Al-Qaeda alias groups Jabhat al Nusrah (JAN) or al Nusrah Front (ANF).
California Man Arrested for Making False Statements in a Terrorism Investigation
A Sacramento, California, resident was arrested today on a federal charge of making a false statement involving international terrorism. Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab, 23, is charged in a complaint that was unsealed today in the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of California following his arrest. He will have his initial appearance tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. PST in Sacramento.
The arrest was announced by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S. Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner of the Eastern District of California and Special Agent in Charge Monica M. Miller of the FBI’s Sacramento Division.
“Aws Mohammed Younis Al-Jayab allegedly traveled overseas to fight alongside terrorist organizations and lied to U.S. authorities about his activities,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “The National Security Division’s highest priority is protecting the nation from terrorism, and we will continue to hold accountable those who seek to join or aid the cause of terrorism, whether at home or abroad.”
“According to the allegations in the complaint, the defendant traveled to Syria to take up arms with terrorist organizations and concealed that conduct from immigration authorities,” said U.S. Attorney Wagner. “While he represented a potential safety threat, there is no indication that he planned any acts of terrorism in this country. I commend the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force for their dedicated work on this matter.”
“In today’s complex terrorism environment, our Joint Terrorism Task Force plays an important role in combating the threat of terrorism. The collaboration is stronger than ever and essential to protect our communities from harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Miller. “The public plays an equal, if not more important, role in protecting the community. We encourage those who encounter individuals who express an intent to do harm or claim allegiance to a terrorist group – whether in person or online – to voice their concerns to law enforcement.”
According to the complaint, Al-Jayab is a Palestinian born in Iraq, who came to the United States as an Iraqi refugee in October 2012. Between October 2012 and November 2013, while living in Arizona and Wisconsin, he communicated over social media with numerous other individuals about his intent to return to Syria to fight for terrorist organizations. In those communications, according to the complaint, Al-Jayab discussed his previous experience with firearms and with fighting against the regime in Syria. On Nov. 9, 2013, he flew from Chicago to Turkey, and then traveled to Syria. Between November 2013 and January 2014, Al-Jayab allegedly reported on social media that he was in Syria fighting with various terrorist organizations, including Ansar al-Islam, a designated foreign terrorist organization since 2004. He returned to the United States on Jan. 23, 2014, and settled in Sacramento.
The complaint alleges that on Oct. 6, 2014, Al-Jayab was interviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and responded in the negative to numerous questions, including whether he had ever been a member of any rebel group or militia; whether he had ever provided material support for any person or group engaged in terrorist activity; and whether he had ever been a member of a group, or assisted in a group, which used or threatened the use of weapons against others. Al-Jayab also allegedly stated during the interview that he had traveled to Turkey in late 2013 and early 2014 to visit his grandmother. The complaint alleges that all of those answers were materially false.
If convicted, Al-Jayab faces a maximum statutory penalty of eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any potential sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.
The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Thomas of the Eastern District of California and Trial Attorney Andrew Sigler of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) stands in support of our universal human rights for all, and we stand in defiance against those, including terrorist and hate groups, which seek to attack such universal human rights, dignity, and security for all.
We cannot support human rights, if we also do not reject those who seek to rob our brothers and sisters in humanity of their lives and security, which are also our universal human rights.
In the remote eastern Oregon suburb of Burns, Oregon, a terrorist group, led by extremists Bundy brothers Ryan Bundy and Ammon Bundy, has taken over U.S. federal government buildings in Oregon, and are holding them by gunpoint. The Bundy-led terrorist group seized the U.S. federal government buildings on January 2, 2016, while they were closed for the New Year’s holiday. Public calls for the Bundy terrorist group to surrender to the authorities have been ignored. One terrorist in the group, Ryan Bundy, told Oregonian reporter Ian Kullgren that were willing to kill other Americans.
Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) remains fully committed to rejecting all terrorist threats and attacks on the Universal Human Rights of all of our fellow human beings, including Americans. In the United States of America, the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations defines terrorism as “the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives” [28 C.F.R. Section 0.85 (1) ].
Ian Kullgren reported on January 3, 2016 regarding the terrorist group which has taken over the U.S. federal government building in Oregon: “I talked to Ryan Bundy on the phone again. He said they’re willing to kill and be killed if necessary.”
Oregon: Member of Bundy Terrorist Group Threatens to Kill Americans (Source: Twitter)
Another one of the terrorists, calling himself “Captain Moroni,” told another reporter that he came to take over the U.S. federal government building to die as part of a suicide terrorist attack, stating “I came here to die.” Among the terrorist extremists, there are those claiming to use the attack to promote an extremist view of Mormonism. R.E.A.L. has reached out to and urged the Church of Latter Day Saints to make a statement denouncing these extremist terrorists, which have taken over U.S. government facilities in Oregon. UPDATE: R.E.A.L. has learned the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the following statement: “While the disagreement occurring in Oregon about the use of federal lands is not a Church matter, Church leaders strongly condemn the armed seizure of the facility and are deeply troubled by the reports that those who have seized the facility suggest that they are doing so based on scriptural principles. This armed occupation can in no way be justified on a scriptural basis. We are privileged to live in a nation where conflicts with government or private groups can – and should – be settled using peaceful means, according to the laws of the land.”
One of the Bundy brother terrorist leaders, Ammon Bundy, stated that the armed terrorists planned to occupy the U.S. government facility for years. In a report to the Oregonian, Ammon Bundy stated: “We’re planning on staying here for years, absolutely… This is not a decision we’ve made at the last minute.”
The terrorist group initially stated that they have as many as 150 armed terrorist supporters at the Oregon wildlife refuge compound that they have taken over. Later reports by the media has indicated the terror gang at the Oregon facility is more like 20 individuals.
The Harney County Sheriff Dave Ward stated that the Bundy-led group’s efforts are an “attempt to over throw the county and federal government in hopes to spark a movement across the United States.”
The Harney County Government stated that the Harney County Court House will be closed for security reasons Monday January 4, 2016. Oregon Live reported that schools would be closed in the area this week due to the security issue.
The terrorist group began with what they called a “peaceful protest” at the Harney County Sheriff’s Office, regarding policies of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which is a part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the arrest of two Oregon Harney County ranchers for a 2012 case of arson. The two Harney County ranchers, Dwight Hammond Jr. and his son Steven Hammond, were convicted, served time, and reporting for additional jail sentences. The Hammond family reportedly has rejected the terrorist activities of the Bundy-led terrorist group. “Neither Ammon Bundy nor anyone within his group/organization speak for the Hammond Family,” the Hammonds’ lawyer W. Alan Schroeder wrote to Sheriff David Ward.
Many among the Oregon public have rejected and renounced the actions of the Bundy-led terrorist group. AP reports that local residents fear being targets of the extremist group. While the public and Oregonians are also angry with the Bundy-led terrorist group, law enforcement has specifically asked the public not to confront the terrorists.
Sign outside a Burns, Oregon, home reflects community sentiment that Bundy-led terrorist group is not welcome by Oregonians (Source: Les Zaitz, The Oregonian via AP)
After the initial “protest” in front of the Harney County Sheriff’s Office, terrorist leaders broke away from the protest and drove off to an area south of Burns to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, which they took over the U.S. government facility at gunpoint, and blocked the access road. Local news media believe that the terrorist plot to take over the U.S. federal government facility had “been planned for some time.”
The terrorist group took over the refuge headquarters at gunpoint of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, south of Burns, which is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which includes the main office, a museum, and homes. The terrorists have also stationed armed extremists within the wildlife center’s watchtower to watch for law enforcement response to their crimes. In addition to this facility, the Oregonian reports that the Bundy-led terrorist group was also planning to take over another U.S. government facility at a wildland fire station near the town of Frenchglen, Oregon, which is approximately 40 miles south of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The Oregonian reports that “The U.S. Bureau of Land Management posts crews there during the fire season.”
The Bundy-led terrorist group is known to consist of Ryan Bundy, Ammon Bundy, Ryan Payne (U.S. Army veteran from Montana), Blaine Cooper (from Arizona who was involved in Quran burnings to incite violence), Jon Ritzheimer (who has led groups with automatic weapons to threaten Muslims outside of Arizona mosques), and LaVoy Finicum (described by critics as an “anarchist” who views himself as “above the law” and “threatening violence to get what you decided should be yours.”) Similar to other “suicide” type terrorist videos by jihadist extremists, the Oregonian reports that : “[d]ays before the refuge takeover, Ritzheimer posted what struck some as a farewell video to his family,” who he abandoned on Christmas Day to drive to Oregon, as part of the planned terrorist takeover. In terrorist Jon Ritzheimer’s “farewell video,” he condemned the U.S. government as an “oppressive and tyrannical government.”
The Bundy-led terrorist group originally claimed to have over 100 supporters at the Oregon compound under seige, but according to an Oregon Live report on the afternoon of January 4, indicates that in their appeals for more members, they are now stating they have 20 members in their terrorist group at the U.S. government facility they have taken hostage.
The Bundy-led terrorist group continues to have access to the Internet and apparently mobile phones to continue to recruit new members to their terrorist cause, while they are holding the U.S. federal government building hostage. Like the ISIS terrorist group, the Bundy-led terrorists have used Twitter and Facebook as ways to recruit members to support their violent activities, as well as to issue propaganda for their cause. They continue to have such access while committing their terrorist attack. Twitter has not cancelled their accounts, and they continue to publish new propaganda while actively holding U.S. government facilities at gunpoint.
Terrorist Ammon Bundy has been using Twitter on the morning of Monday, January 4, 2016 to promote his agenda and his claims that he has a “Constitutional” right to commit terrorist activities. His followers include supporters of the racist Confederate group, racist “White Resistance,” and various extremists, as well as a reported police officer with the City of Miami Gardens, Florida.
Terrorist Leader Ammon Bundy still has access to Twitter account to spread his message, while holding U.S. government facilities at gunpoint (Source: Twitter)
In addition, the Bundy terrorist group is also recruiting for additional support on Facebook using a “Bundy Ranch” account, and there has been no action to cancel their Facebook recruiting page, which provides telephone numbers and means for terrorist supporters to aid and support the violent takeover of U.S. federal government buildings. Facebook is continuing to be used by this group for active recruitment of an armed, violent takeover of U.S. Government facilities, at the time of this posting, with no Facebook limitations on their activities.
Bundy Terrorist Group Member Jon Ritzheimer with Racist Confederate Flag
Oregon Live also reports that the Bundy terrorist group is getting out other appeals on the afternoon of January 4, 2016, for armed and unarmed terrorist supporters to join them. Blaine Cooper and Jon Ritzheimer, who are members of the terrorist group, are using the Internet to make appeals to their extremist followers.
The FBI’s Portland, Oregon office released a statement on January 4, 2016, via Twitter which stated: “The FBI is the lead investigative agency for the situation at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.” “We are working with Harney Cty SO, OSP & other agencies to bring a peaceful resolution to the situation at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.” “Due to safety considerations we will not be releasing any specifics with regards to the law enforcement response.”
On January 3, 2016, Harney County Sheriff Dave Ward issued a statement on the Bundy-led terrorist efforts: “These men came to Harney County claiming to be part of militia groups supporting local ranchers, when in reality these men had alternative motives to attempt to over throw the county and federal government in hopes to spark a movement across the United States.” “We are currently working jointly with several organizations to make sure the citizens of Harney County are safe and this issue is resolved as quickly and peaceful as possible. At this time we do not have any information that any other areas in Harney County are in immediate danger.” “We ask that people stay away from the refuge for their safety. We also ask that if anyone sees any of these individuals in the area to please contact law enforcement and do not confront the individuals themselves…” Sheriff Dave Ward issued a previous statement which also stated: “A collective effort from multiple agencies is currently working on a solution. For the time being please stay away from that area. More information will be provided as it becomes available. Please maintain a peaceful and united front and allow us to work through this situation.”
Law enforcement authorities asked politicians not to comment on the Bundy-led terrorist effort to avoid inflaming the situation, which was why there had been a considerable silence on January 2 and 3 on this issue from the political community. However, one national politician did criticize a lack of aggressive action as a racial issue. Another national politician made a statement on January 4 calling for the Bundy-led group to “stand down,” because “we don’t have a constitutional right to use force and violence and to threaten force and violence against others.”
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.)’s position has and will continue to remain consistent on our unambiguous rejection of terrorist violence, which is in direct opposition to our Universal Human Rights. R.E.A.L. does not see any “conservative” or “liberal” political view, or any other “political” view, when it comes to such terrorist threats, activities, criminal behavior, and violation of our shared human rights. This is never a matter of “right” or “left” in politics, as some want to believe, but it is a matter of RIGHT and WRONG. As R.E.A.L. rejects all terrorist behavior, we also reject all terrorist threats and actions in the United States of America. To extremists who believe they have a Constitutional “right” to terrorist behavior, that is as much of a lie as those who claim they have a “religious” right to terrorist behavior. R.E.A.L. will consistently reject terrorism – all the time – and R.E.A.L. urges all those who respect our universal human rights to do so.
The U.S. Department of Justice reports, on December 31, 2015, that a New York supporter of the ISIS terrorist organization has been arrested and charged with a plot to commit a terrorist attack in Rochester, New York, at a local restaurant. The man was identified as 25 year-old Emanuel L. Lutchman. He expressed a desire to kill “1000000s of kuffar.”
American ISIS: Emanuel Lutchman Arrested and Charged with ISIS Terrorist Group SupportExcerpt from Criminal Complaint Against ISIS Terrorist Group Supporter Emmanuel Latchman
Excerpt from Criminal Complaint Against ISIS Terrorist Group Supporter Emmanuel Latchman
According to the criminal complaint, Emanuel Lutchman began corresponding with an FBI informant in November and made numerous statements expressing his support for ISIS and his desire to join the group in Syria. Late this month, he allegedly told the informant he had been in contact with someone who identified himself as an ISIS member in Syria, and that he relayed his personal “hatred for everything in America” and his intention to join the group overseas, according to the complaint.
The criminal complaint states: “Lutchman, claiming to have received direction from an overseas ISIL member, attempted to commit an armed attack against a civilian(s) at a restaurant/bar located in the Rochester area on New Year’s Even on behalf of ISIL and in furtherance of his plan to join ISIL overseas.
The complaint also states that “The Overseas Individual told Lutchman that all he has to do is plan an ‘operation’ on New Year’s or whenever he (Lutchman) can, and kill ‘1000000s of kuffar.’ The Overseas Individual emphasized that Lutchman is ‘behind enemy lines’ and that he (Lutchman) was the closest person to their most hated enemy (meaning the United States).”
Emanuel L. Lutchman, 25, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), a designated foreign terrorist organization. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The announcement was made by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. of the Western District of New York and Special Agent in Charge Adam S. Cohen of the Federal Investigation Bureau’s (FBI) Buffalo Division.
“According to the complaint, as part of Emanuel Lutchman’s attempt to provide material support to ISIL, he planned to kill innocent civilians on New Year’s Eve in the name of the terrorist organization.” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “Thankfully, law enforcement was able to intervene and thwart Lutchman’s deadly plans.”
“This New Year’s Eve prosecution underscores the threat of ISIL even in upstate New York but demonstrates our determination to immediately stop any who would cause harm in its name,” said U.S. Attorney Hochul. “What began as an ISIL directive to harm the community ended with the arrest of this defendant and a message for any other individuals considering similar behavior – you will be caught, you will be prosecuted, and you will be punished. While law enforcement is well equipped for such investigations, the public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. I assure members of the public that the excellent work of our law enforcement partners with the cooperation of the public is the best way to ensure the safety of our community.”
“The FBI thwarted Emanuel Lutchman’s intent to kill civilians on New Year’s Eve,” said Special Agent in Charge Cohen. “The FBI remains concerned about people overseas who use the Internet to inspire people in the United States to commit acts of violence where they live.”
According to court records, the defendant, claiming to receive direction from an overseas ISIL member, planned to commit an armed attack against civilians at a restaurant/bar located in the Rochester, New York, area today, New Year’s Eve on behalf of ISIL and in furtherance of his plan to join ISIL overseas.
The defendant made an initial appearance this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson of the U.S. Western District of New York.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Rochester Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey with the assistance of Trial Attorney Lawrence Schneider of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) stands in support of our universal human rights for all, and we stand in defiance against those, including terrorist and hate groups, which seek to attack such universal human rights, dignity, and security for all.
We cannot support human rights, if we also do not reject those who seek to rob our brothers and sisters in humanity of their lives and security, which are also our universal human rights.
December 22, 2015 – update – at a court hearing, an FBI Special Agent Daniel Higgins testified that American ISIS terrorist Abdirizak Mohamed Warsame, had been bragging of plans to shoot down airplanes at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport with rocket-propelled grenades. Abdirizak Mohamed Warsame had previously worked at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport as a baggage handler, working with a company handling jet fuel, and working with a company that de-ices planes. U.S. Magistrate Judge Becky Thorson ruled at the hearing that there is sufficient probable cause to support the charges, and that Warsame should not be released from jail. The case will now go to a grand jury for an indictment. The background investigation into American ISIS terrorist Abdirizak Mohamed Warsame found nothing that disqualified him from getting a security badge to work at an American airport.
Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) News also reported that “[a]n airport spokesman confirmed to MPR News that Warsame worked there for several months starting in December 2013. He first worked for a company that de-ices planes, Integrated Deicing Services, and then got a job for Swissport, a company that handles fuel. Airport officials said they screen job applicants against federal databases, and there was nothing in Warsame’s background to deny granting him a security badge.”
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On December 10, 2015, a 10th American ISIS terrorist, Abdirizak Mohamed Warsame was arrested, as part of the Minnesota gang of American ISIS terrorist group. According to the criminal complaint, Warsame was at one point the leader of a group of young, Somali-American from the Minnesota Twin Cities area, who tried to flee the country in April to aid the ISIS terrorist group. He was urged to rob the U.S. government to finance his efforts. He becomes the 16th known recent American ISIS terrorist recruit from the Minnesota area.
Minnesota – American ISIS Terrorist Abdirizak Mohamed WarsameOthers in American ISIS Minnesota Terrorist Network
Abdirizak Mohamed Warsame, 20, of Eagan, Minnesota, was charged by criminal complaint with conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), announced Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger of the District of Minnesota and Special Agent in Charge Richard T. Thornton of the FBI’s Minneapolis Division.
“Abdirizak Warsame conspired with others to travel to Syria to fight with ISIL,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “Counterterrorism is the National Security Division’s highest priority, and we will continue to work to stem the flow of foreign fighters abroad and to bring to justice those who seek to provide material support to designated foreign terrorist organizations.”
“This defendant is the 10th Twin Cities’ man charged as part of a broad conspiracy to provide material support to ISIL,” said U.S. Attorney Luger. “The FBI and prosecutors in my office continue to work without pause to keep Minnesotans safe and bring these defendants to justice.”
According to the complaint and documents filed in court, in spring 2014, Warsame and his co-conspirators began meeting to watch propaganda videos that glorified religious violence and to discuss their aspirations to travel to Syria to join ISIL. Members of the group, including Warsame, discussed ways to leave the United States and travel to Syria, despite the fact that law enforcement was intensely scrutinizing the group. At one such meeting, Guled Omar was elected “emir,” or leader, of the group. Later in 2014, when Omar was planning to depart for Syria, Omar appointed Warsame to replace him as emir for the remaining co-conspirators.
According to the complaint and documents filed in court, during the same period, Warsame provided $200 to a co-conspirator, Adnan Farah, so that Farah could obtain an expedited U.S. passport to travel overseas to join ISIL. Warsame also applied for an expedited passport during this time, but his application was initially denied.
According to the complaint and documents filed in court, Warsame repeatedly attempted to obtain a telephone number or other contact information of ISIL members, including ISIL member H.K. In June 2014, Warsame specifically attempted to obtain this contact information so that he could pass it along to Y.J., who was attempting to travel from Turkey to Syria to join ISIL.
According to the complaint and documents filed in court, in April 2015, Warsame actively encouraged Omar and other co-conspirators to travel to Syria through Mexico, but did not plan to join their group because he was planning to travel with his family to East Africa. From East Africa, Warsame planned to either break free from his family and travel to Syria, or wait in Somalia for a time when, he believed, al-Shabaab would pledge allegiance to ISIL, thus expanding ISIL to Somalia.
According to the criminal complaint and documents filed in court, on April 2, 2015, Warsame recounted a conversation he had with Abdi Nur, before Nur left the United States for Syria. In that exchange, Warsame told Omar that he proposed to Nur that they rob people in order to finance their travel to Syria, which Nur rejected and suggested instead that they rob the government.
The terrorist group ISIS has reportedly targeted a government employee with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, in the Washington D.C. suburb of Gaithersburg, Maryland, according to an NBC News report.
NBC News 4 reports: “News4 has obtained federal law enforcement records showing the FBI investigated the case and warned the employee of the threat. Security was increased for the worker and no known connection to ISIS was revealed, according to police reports. The employee was advised to notify internal agency police about her ‘arrivals and departures from (the) NIST campus,’ according to law enforcement records.”
NBC News 4 states: “The NIST campus is heavily secured, with police checkpoints guarding entrances. Tall fences and video surveillance surround the perimeter. Public access is restricted.
Multiple purported ISIS hit lists have surfaced online in recent months, one of which included more than 1,400 names. In another instance, members of the military were named. ‘We have followed FBI protocols in addressing this situation and have shared the relevant and important security information with all parties involved,’ a NIST spokeswoman said. ‘As always, the safety and protection of our employees are essential to NIST and the Department of Commerce.’ The police reports reviewed by News4 specify the NIST employee has no ties to ISIS.”
The Washington D.C. area has been regularly threatened by the ISIS terrorist organization.
On behalf of the people of Washington D.C. and its suburbs, Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) states to the ISIS terrorist organization that we are not afraid.
Washington D.C. was once burned down by British tyrants, and it was attacked by Al Qaeda terrorists. Washington D.C. was the target of nuclear annihilation by the tyrants of the Communist U.S.S.R. Washington D.C. has been the target of lunatics, extremists, and criminals for centuries. We do not expect this to change. Whatever comes its way, the capital and people of the United States of America will persevere and defeat all foes that seek it harm.
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) stands in support of our universal human rights for all, and we stand in defiance against those, including terrorist and hate groups, which seek to attack such universal human rights, dignity, and security for all.
We cannot support human rights, if we also do not reject those who seek to rob our brothers and sisters in humanity of their lives and security, which are also our universal human rights.
An American man in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has been arrested for providing conspiring and attempting to provide material support to the ISIS terrorist organization.
Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz Arrested for Supporting ISIS Terror Group
As reported in the complaint filed in Middle District of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia for this case (I:15-MJ-81), Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz used Twitter to and other social media to promote attacks on the United States of America, including calls for the assassination of President Barack Obama, specifically for his beheading. According to the complaint, Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz also promoted slavery of women, and stated that he was interested in buying a teenage Yazidi woman slave. The complaint states that Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz pledged allegiance to the ISIS terrorist organization and to Abu bakr Al Baghdadi. It states that Jalil Ibn Ameer Azi sought to promote violent attacks on the United States, and circulated a list of the names of addresses of U.S. military to urge attacks on them and their homes. The complaint states that he called for the killing of Non-Muslims with a regular chant “KillAllKufar.” In addition, the complaint states that he tried to make travel arrangements for individuals to travel to ISIS controlled territories.
Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz had 57 different Twitter accounts which he used to promote ISIS terrorist ideology and promote violence. He also had what the authorities describe as a “tactical-style backpack” including “five M4-style high-capacity magazines loaded with 5.56 ammunition, a modified kitchen knife with the handle removed and wrapped in cloth or string, a thumb drive, a tin filled with various over-the-counter-medications, and a head wrap commonly referred to as a balaclava.” He wrote “Pennsylvania have very light gun laws its very easy to arm yourself.”
American ISIS – Pennsylvania Man Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz Arrested for ISIS Terror Group Support, Called for Terrorist Attacks on USA and President
Penn Live also reported that Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz appeared in court on December 18, 2015: “A soft-spoken man, Aziz, who wore a gray long-sleeved T-shirt and gray sweat pants and sandals, accepted the counsel of assistant federal public defenders, Lori Ulrich and Heidi Freese during the proceeding. Carlson read the charges Aziz is facing to him. Aziz answered the judge in mostly ‘yes’ and ‘no’ statements during the hearing that lasted about 15 minutes. Carslson told Aziz he could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000, followed by three years of supervised release, if found guilty of the charges the U.S. Attorney’s Office lodged against him.”
The complaint provides statements by Jeffrey D. Gruppo, a Special Agent with the Pentagon Force Protection Agency (“PFPA”) assigned to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Joint Terrorism Task Force (“JTTF”) as Task Force Officer (“TFO”) , including the following statements:
“8. An investigation by the JTTF has revealed that AZIZ espouses violent
jihadist beliefs and is a fervent supporter of a foreign terrorist organization known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (“ISIL”). AZIZ uses social media to spread ISIL propaganda and to seek support for the terrorist group from individuals over the internet. AZIZ’s social media activity supports ISIL by radicalizing and recruiting others. AZIZ has conspired with others and attempted to facilitate the travel of other ISIL supporters to Syria so that they can become ISIL fighters. Furthermore, your affiant believes that AZIZ may be preparing to conduct or assist others in conducting an attack in the United States based on the discovery of a backpack containing numerous high-capacity weapons magazines, ammunition, a knife, and other survival items during a November 27, 2015 physical search of AZIZ’s residence. ”
“13. AZIZ has created and used at least 57 different Twitter accounts. It appears that Twitter routinely suspends AZIZ’s accounts due to the radical nature of his postings, which violate Twitter’s policies. AZIZ then responds by creating backup accounts or opening a new Twitter account with slightly different
variations of common user names that he uses. AZIZ frequently uses a variation of “Colonel Shami” as either his username, vanity name, or to refer to himself. AZIZ also commonly re-establishes contact with common associates of his on Twitter.”
“15. AZIZ commonly uses his Twitter accounts to spread pro-ISIL propaganda, including news from ISIL sources as well as execution photos and videos. Open sources revealed that AZIZ has also used his Twitter accounts to directly and indirectly advocate for violence, encourage individuals to provide monetary support for jihad, express his desire to make pilgrimage to ISIL- controlled territory, provide advice about how to travel inconspicuously, and facilitate others’ travel to fight for ISIL.”
“16. AZIZ has used Twitter to pledge allegiance to ISIL and its leader, al
Baghdadi. On or about June 29, 2014, AZIZ, using the Twitter account @AnsarUmmah, posted “My bayah to sheikh Abu bakr Al Baghdadi.” [In this context the term “bayah” translates to allegiance].”
“17. AZIZ has used Twitter to advocate for violence. On or about January 8, 2015, AZIZ, using account @Ansara1Ummah8, tweeted “#KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #KillAllKufar #Kill All Kufar.” [The term “kufar” translates to “infidels” and I believe is synonymous with “non-believers” in this context].” (R.E.A.L. notes there are others still promoting this on Twitter.)
“18. On or about January 29,2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Colonel_Shami, D tweeted “#IS “Know O Obama, that we are coming to America and know that we will sever your head in the White House” “.” This post also included a picture of a masked militant about to behead an unknown soldier. The affiant believes that AZIZ was sharing ISIL messages and propaganda regarding threats against the United States.”
“19. On or about February 2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Ansara1Ummah13, posted or re-posted numerous Tweets, some of which advocated for violence in the United States. The Tweets appear to have been made in response to the shooting of three Muslim individuals in Chapel Hill, North Carolina on or about February 10, 2015. The Tweets are as follows:
a. On or about February 11, 2015, AZIZ retweeted from @abubritani3, “#usa will pay for #ChapelHillShooting we will make sure you don’t live in peace,”
b. Also on February 11, 2015 AZIZ tweeted “This martyrdom will be a spark that will awaken sleeping lions in America, let their blood watered the seeds of jihad.#ChapelHillShooting,” and “Dear moderates. Give up a life of
humiliation-kissing the boot of the kufaar oppressors for a life of liberation in #IS #ChappelHillMartyrs.”
“20. On or about April 16, 2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Ansara1Ummah2Bl tweeted “Perform your Islamic duty. Support the Jihad with your wealth. Surah Baqarah (2:195) RT & SHARE DM for more info.” Your affiant believes that AZIZ is encouraging others to provide funding to jihadi groups, most likely ISIL. Your affiant further believes that by asking potential funders to “DM,” AZIZ is encouraging funders to message him directly using Twitter. Twitter’s direct messaging function is private and messages sent using this function are only viewable to the participants in the conversation.”
“21. Law enforcement has confirmed that on or about March 21,2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Baqiyaah201S posted to Twitter account @_Qariban_ talking about how to covertly travel to the Islamic State and mask the intention of the travel. Using Twitter account @Baqiyaah201S, AZIZ tweeted the following, “Hmmm so if I want make hijrah to Islamic State just act like person who going there to do Civilians jobs?”. AZIZ then continued “…May Allah make our hijrah easy inshallah. Maybe one can go there as university student to study in Mosul University.”
“22. On or about March 21, 2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Baqiyaah201S, tweeted “Pennsylvania have very light gun laws its very easy to arm yourself.”
“23. On or about May 2, 2015, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Ansara1Ummah49, tweeted “”When can be like him?? [emoji] Pray for me to be with my bros and get a VISA to Jannathul firdouse.[emoji] Jazakallah khair ….” [The term “VISA to Jannathul firdouse” translates to “a visa to paradise (or heaven)”]. Your affiant believes that AZIZ is expressing his desire to gain entry to heaven by conducting jihad or becoming a martyr.”
“24. On the same day, AZIZ, using Twitter account @Ansara1Ummah49, and other Twitter users also discussed making “hijrah” [the term “hijrah” translates to “emigration,” but in some contexts, travel to land controlled by ISIL]. Twitter user @endoftdrms tweeted, “@Ansara1Ummah49 one day I will probably see colonel shami made hijrah.” AZIZ, using Twitter account @Ansara1Ummah49, responded “@endoftdrms [three smiling faces] inshallah akhi.” Based on the investigation, your affiant believes that “colonel shami” is an alias frequently used by AZIZ. Your affiant believes that AZIZ’s response suggests that he intends to travel to territory controlled by ISIL. On more than one occasion, AZIZ has declared his desire to travel to the “Islamic State.” Additionally, AZIZ has also expressed an interest in disguising the purpose of his travel, as discussed in paragraph 15.”
“25. On or about May 30, 2015, in response to a then upcoming Draw Mohammed event in Phoenix, Arizona, Twitter user @GhanimaHaqq [AZIZ] reposted from @NdangeredSpecie “I hope the brothers have nailbombs ready for those protesters. Kill them all.” ”
“26. On or about July 21, 2015, Twitter user @MuslimBruhO [AZIZ] carried on a Twitter conversation with other Twitter users about purchasing Yazidi women for slaves. For his part in the conversation, @MuslimBruhO [AZIZ] posted the following:
“@_I_I_I_I @Etimdz How much the yazidi women cost plus what’s there ages??”
“@Etimdz @_I_I_I_I I’m serious, I’m considering on buying one girl inshallah once I arrive in Islamic State loooool”
“@TheScimitar 107 @YesSirQadhi @Etimdz @_I_I_I_I I just want one girl 17yearsold”
“27. The affiant assesses that AZIZ was not only talking about purchasing a female slave, but also talked about traveling to the “Islamic State.” The reference to the “Islamic State” when used by ISIL supporters refers to the territory, mostly in Syria and Iraq, which is currently held by ISIL.”
“28. On or about July 24, 2015, @MuslimBruhO [AZIZ] posted a Tweet about desire to travel to the “Islamic State.” “@peace_seekerl @NdoSisi_ May Allah grant us a way to make hijrah to the Islamic State.” The affiant assesses that “hijrah” is a reference to traveling to an Islamic country, and in this instance AZIZ was again referring to the “Islamic State”, or ISIL territory.”
“29. Your affiant believes AZIZ is currently using Twitter accounts with a variation of”Islamic Analyst” in the name. On or about November 26, 2015, AZIZ, using @lslamicAnalyst5, tweeted, “Photo report [picture of a camera]: #IS sniper battalion in #Kirkuk .. #lslamicState #Iraq #ISIS Link: justpaste.it/p5yr pic.twitter.com/3je515n04q.” The links show multiple pictures of snipers in
various settings.”
“30. AZIZ has also used Twitter to spread ISIL propaganda that advocated for violence against United States military members. On or about March 21, 2015, AZIZ using Twitter account @Baqiyaah20 1s tweeted “Well, US military guys are f**cked IS hacker division just revealed 100 of their address photos n Intelloooool #Baqiyah.” On the same day, AZIZ also posted “Yep them US guys are pretty F**ked all right exuse my language …” This post also contained a photo of United States service members and their identifying information.”
“31. On or about March 21,2015, AZIZ using Twitter account @Baqiyaah201S tweeted “US Military Hacked by Islamic State Hackers […]100 Addresses of Military Personnel Leaked!\”.” This Twitter posting also included a hyperlink to the full document released by the “Islamic State Hacking Division.” The affiant has reviewed this release and affirms that it contains the names of 100 reported United States military members, their alleged addresses and other identifying information, and calls for violence against them.”
“32. AZIZ has been contacted by multiple individuals about traveling to the Islamic State. Your affiant believes this is due in large part to AZIZ’s efforts to promote himself in the on-line extremist community as someone who can facilitate travel on behalf of ISIL. AZIZ has also cultivated a reputation within this on-line extremist community as someone who has important travel facilitation contacts within ISIL. All travelers and travel facilitation contacts are identified as coconspirators. Unless otherwise noted, their identities are known to law enforcement.”
There are another 6 pages in the complaint of details about Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz working to coordinate travel to ISIS controlled areas. There are five individuals referenced using pseudonyms to avoid alerting such ISIS terrorist supporters.
“40. On or about November 27, 2015, pursuant to a court-authorized search, law enforcement confirmed that there was a tactical-style backpack in AZIZ’s closet. A search of the backpack identified five M4-style high-capacity magazines loaded with 5.56 ammunition, a modified kitchen knife with the handle removed and wrapped in cloth or string, a thumb drive, a tin filled with various over-the-counter-medications, and a head wrap commonly referred to as a balaclava. The affiant believes this hood is a similar style worn by ISIL members to hide their identities.”
A Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, resident was arrested today on charges of conspiring and attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz, 19, a U.S. citizen, is charged in a two-count criminal complaint that was unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania following his arrest. His initial appearance will be at 4:30 p.m. EST in Harrisburg.
The arrest was announced by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S. Attorney Peter J. Smith of the Middle District of Pennsylvania and Special Agent in Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division.
“According to the allegations in the complaint, Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz conspired to provide and attempted to provide material support to ISIL by propagating their hateful rhetoric on social media and aiding individuals in their pursuit of traveling overseas to join the designated foreign terrorist organization,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “A prior physical search of Aziz’s residence also revealed a tactical-style backpack in his closet, which contained high-capacity weapons magazines, ammunition, a knife, and other survival items. The National Security Division’s highest priority is counterterrorism, and we will remain vigilant in our efforts to hold accountable any and all those who seek to provide material support to terrorists, and to disrupt potential attacks in the United States before they happen.”
“The charges in this case focus on Aziz’s efforts to assist persons seeking to travel to and fight for the Islamic State,” said U.S. Attorney Smith. “These charges are a testament to the perseverance and dedication of those who stand watch over our nation and a clear message that those who support terrorism—will face justice.”
“The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) will move with speed to detect and disrupt those who are involved in facilitation or operational planning in support of a terrorist organization. There is no difference between the two, and we will aggressively pursue every threat in order to protect our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Sweeney. “In this instance, Aziz operated quietly on behalf of the Islamic State and facilitated others looking to do the same.” Sweeney extended his appreciation to the Harrisburg-based members of FBI Philadelphia’s JTTF, and he encouraged anyone with concerns about suspicious behavior to contact appropriate authorities.
According to the complaint, Aziz has used at least 57 different Twitter accounts to advocate violence against the United States and its citizens, to disseminate ISIL propaganda and espouse pro-ISIL views. Aziz is alleged to have posted a hyperlink containing the names, addresses and other identifying information of 100 reported members of the U.S. military and calls for violence against them. Additionally, on at least three occasions, Aziz also allegedly used his Twitter accounts and other electronic communication services to assist persons seeking to travel to and fight for ISIL. In one instance, Aziz allegedly acted as an intermediary between a person in Turkey and several well-known members of ISIL. According to the allegations in the complaint, Aziz passed location information, including maps and a telephone number, between these ISIL supporters.
A prior search of a backpack located in Aziz’s closet identified five loaded M4-style high-capacity magazines, a modified kitchen knife, a thumb drive, medication and a balaclava.
A criminal complaint is only a charge is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendants’ sentence will be determined by the court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, and the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Philadelphia JTTF. This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Robert Sander and Adam L. Small of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom of the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
Also as shown on Twitter there are also extremists who are calling for his release:
Those Using Twitter to call for the Release of Accused American ISIS Terrorist Jalil Ibn Ameer Aziz in Pennsylvania (Source: Twitter)
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As always, R.E.A.L. views that all are legally innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) stands in support of our universal human rights for all, and we stand in defiance against those, including terrorist and hate groups, which seek to attack such universal human rights, dignity, and security for all.
We cannot support human rights, if we also do not reject those who seek to rob our brothers and sisters in humanity of their lives and security, which are also our universal human rights.
On December 17, 2015, in the U.S. Central District Court in Riverside, California, in U.S. Government Complaint in Case Number 5:15MJ498, the FBI investigating agent in the arrest of Enrique Marquez, charged with “conspiring to provide material support to terrorists,” stated that Tashfeen Malik pledged allegiance to ISIS on Facebook.
On page 20, paragraph 50:
— “On December 2, 2015, at approximately 8:43-8:47 a.m., an individual subsequently identified as Malik searched social media for materials related to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (“ISIL”), also referred to as the Islamic State (“IS”), or the Islamic State of Iraq and al-sham (“ISIS”), or Daesh. ISIL, formerly known as Al-Qa’ida in Iraq (“AQI”), is United States Department of State designed foreign terrorist organization and has been so since December 2004.”
Screen shot of FBI Affidavit, paragraph 50, in December 17, 2015 Complaint in U.S. District Court on Enrique Marquez
On page 21, paragraph 54:
— “That same day, on December 2, 2015, at approximately 11:14 a.m. a post on a Facebook page associated with Malik stated, “We pledge allegiance to Khalifa bu bkr al bhaghdadi al quraishi.” [AGENT NOTE: Based on my training and experience, I believe that Malik was referring to Abu Bakhr Al Baghdadi, who is the leader of ISIL].”
Screen shot of FBI Affidavit, paragraph 54, in December 17, 2015 Complaint in U.S. District Court on Enrique Marquez
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Responsible for Equality And Liberty (R.E.A.L.) finds the contentious political discourse involved in an ongoing terrorist investigation to be counter-productive, and believe a focus on facts and on the human rights issues involved should be a priority for the citizens of the world. Let us never forget that victims of terrorist attacks also have human rights too. R.E.A.L. rejects the denial about the repeated and documented cases of extremist, such as those supporting ISIS and other various extremists, who seek to threaten the human rights, dignity, security, and lives of others. In the “battle of ideas,” we must consistently challenge those extremist groups and their followers, who seek to deny our Universal Human Rights.
Enrique Marquez, friend of San Bernardino terrorist Syed Rizwan Farook, was arrested on Thursday, December 17, 2015. He acknowledged that he bought the two AR-15s automatic rifles for Syed Rizwan Farook, which Farook used in the December 2, 2015 terrorist attack in San Bernardino.
In addition, CNN reported on December 10 that: “He’s also told investigators about a 2012 attack plot that he says he and Farook conceived but did not carry out, U.S. officials told CNN. Marquez told investigators that part of the reason the two abandoned their plans was that around that time, they were spooked by unrelated FBI arrests of four people charged with attempting to travel abroad to carry out jihad.”
The Los Angeles Times reports:
Enrique Marquez, the friend of terrorist Syed Rizwan Farook, has been arrested on criminal charges in connection with the Dec. 2 massacre in San Bernardino, federal authorities said Thursday.
The 24-year-old Riverside resident once lived next door to Farook and purchased two of the semiautomatic rifles that Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, used in the attack that killed 14 people.
The arrest represents a major development in the widening investigation of the third foreign terror attack in the U.S. this year, and the deadliest since 2001.
Before the shooting, Marquez worked as a security guard at Wal-Mart and was known as a shy cycling enthusiast with dreams of joining the Navy. Recently he had been attempting to lose weight to prepare for the rigors of boot camp.
Marquez appeared to have been greatly influenced by Farook. While Farook was known for keeping to himself, he struck up a friendship with Marquez and the two were often seen tinkering on old cars together. Marquez converted to Islam, prayed at a local mosque and married a member of Farook’s extended family, a Russian emigre.
About four or five years ago, Marquez began attending prayers at the Islamic Society of Corona-Norco, according to Yousuf Bhaghani, president of the facility’s board of directors.
Bhaghani said Marquez was not a regular but stuck out because of his Latino background. He was remembered as “a decent guy who came to pray, nothing that could raise any flags.”
Marquez legally purchased the two firearms in 2011 and 2012, around the same time that Farook had allegedly plotted to carry out an earlier attack. Farook asked Marquez to purchase the weapons on his behalf because he did not want them traced to him and doubted he could pass a background check, the sources said.
FBI agents believe Farook scrapped the plan after three men were arrested in the Inland Empire for plotting to kill Americans in Afghanistan. There was no record of any transfer of the weapons from Marquez to Farook and Malik.
In New York State, an American ISIS recruit from Rochester, Mufid A. Elfgeeh, pleaded guilty to support for the ISIS terrorist on December 17, 2015. He pleaded guilty to two counts of trying to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. He could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison, but federal prosecutors said they will recommend 22½ years behind bars.
Mufid A. Elfgeeh was a recruit for ISIS, who pleaded guilty to providing material support to ISIS, but who (as the FBI also previously reported) had purchased multiple guns with silencers to kill American soldiers who had returned from Iraq.
The Buffalo News reports that “Elfgeeh’s admissions, part of a plea agreement approved in Rochester Federal Court, makes him the first Western New Yorker to plead guilty to a charge of recruiting for ISIS. Charged in September of last year, Elfgeeh was accused of trying to recruit three others to join the Islamic State of Syria and fight overseas. He also was charged with attempted murder for his alleged role in planning to kill former and current members of the U.S. military.”
American ISIS recruit Mufid A. Elfgeeh was arrested in June 2014, and was indicted in September 2014. He was initially charged with one count of attempted murder of current and former members of the United States military, one count of possessing firearms equipped with silencers in furtherance of a crime of violence, and two counts of receipt and possession of unregistered firearm silencers.
In September 2014, the U.S. Department of Justice reported on the indictment of Mufid Elfgeeh:
Attorney General Eric Holder, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Carlin and U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. for the Western District of New York announced today that a federal grand jury in Rochester has returned a seven-count indictment charging Mufid A. Elfgeeh, 30, of Rochester, with three counts of attempting to provide material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), aka the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. In addition, Elfgeeh is also charged with one count of attempted murder of current and former members of the United States military, one count of possessing firearms equipped with silencers in furtherance of a crime of violence, and two counts of receipt and possession of unregistered firearm silencers.
“We will remain aggressive in identifying and disrupting those who seek to provide support to ISIL and other terrorist groups that are bent on inflicting harm upon Americans,” said Attorney General Holder. “As this case shows, our agents and prosecutors are using all the investigative tools at our disposal to break up these plots before individuals can put their plans into action. We are focused on breaking up these activities on the front end, before supporters of ISIL can make good on plans to travel to the region or recruit sympathizers to this cause.”
The material support charges each carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, the attempted murder charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, the firearms possession charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years and a maximum of life in prison, and the firearm silencer charges each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
According to court records, Elfgeeh attempted to provide material support to ISIS in the form of personnel, namely three individuals, two of whom were cooperating with the FBI. Elfgeeh attempted to assist all three individuals in traveling to Syria to join and fight on behalf of ISIS. Elfgeeh also plotted to shoot and kill members of the United States military who had returned from Iraq. As part of the plan to kill soldiers, Elfgeeh purchased two handguns equipped with firearm silencers and ammunition from a confidential source. The handguns were made inoperable by the FBI before the confidential source gave them to Elfgeeh.
According to court documents, in 2013 and into early 2014, Elfgeeh encouraged the two confidential sources (CS-1 and CS-2) to travel overseas to engage in violent jihad. After CS-1 and CS-2 agreed to travel to Syria to join ISIS, Elfgeeh took several steps to prepare them for the trip. Elfgeeh also sent $600 to an individual in Yemen for the purpose of assisting that individual in traveling from Yemen to Syria for the purpose of joining and fighting on behalf of ISIS.
Court documents also indicate that Elfgeeh first discussed the idea of shooting United States military members in December 2013 when he told CS-2 that he was thinking about getting a gun and ammunition, putting on a bulletproof vest, and “just go[ing] around and start shooting.” In February 2014, Elfgeeh told CS-2 that he needed a handgun and silencer. Elfgeeh later gave CS-2 $1,050 in cash to purchase two handguns equipped with silencers and ammunition. On May 31, 2014, CS-2 delivered the two handguns equipped with silencers and ammunition to Elfgeeh. After Elfgeeh took possession of the items, he was arrested by members of the Rochester Joint Terrorism Task Force. Elfgeeh is currently being held in custody.
