A woman from New York has been charged with plotting to bomb the New York State Capitol. According to a criminal complaint, she aimed to kill state senators, conducted surveillance on the building, and acquired materials for an explosive device before the FBI arrested her.
Jessica Bowie, 35, from Albany, faces charges for attempting to support ISIS. The FBI reveals that she pledged allegiance to ISIS and planned to disguise a bomb in a DoorDash delivery bag, targeting an attack during a legislative session.
Bowie, who converted to Islam five years ago and adopted the name “Aisha Saif,” allegedly communicated in Arabic on social media, praising past terror attacks. She coordinated with an FBI source posing as an ISIS facilitator, expressing a desire to construct explosives to damage the building and harm lawmakers.
The investigation documents her reconnaissance of the Capitol area. Between July 21 and August 9, she visited the Capitol about five times, taking photos and surveying security.
Bowie reportedly shared plans with the FBI source about appearing as a food-delivery worker to bypass security and mentioned her intent to maximize damage and casualties.
Authorities reported that on August 5, Bowie visited a Home Depot in Rensselaer using funds provided by a confidential source. She bought items she believed necessary for bomb-making, including nails. She then provided DoorDash bags as potential bomb containers.
On August 19, she met with undercover agents to procure a firearm, magazine, and ammunition for $150, also seeing a fake explosive device made from the materials she had purchased. Bowie was arrested shortly after this meeting, with agents discovering knives and a handwritten ISIS allegiance pledge.
Authorities also claim Bowie voiced plans to flee to Syria post-attack. State officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, emphasized heightened security measures and commend the FBI’s role in her apprehension. Though no immediate threats remain, vigilance continues to ensure public safety.
Governor Hochul is scheduled to address the situation at a press conference. Efforts remain active to involve law enforcement partners in safeguarding the community.
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