A resident of Irondequoit, New York, Catherine Beth Washburn, faces charges for her alleged involvement with a radical extremist group. She stands accused of trying to provide material support to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a group labeled as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. If convicted, Washburn could spend up to 20 years in federal prison along with a $250,000 fine.
Washburn is identified as the leader of the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL). This organization emerged after the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023, according to the Justice Department. DAMPL reportedly rejects peaceful protesting, favoring actions such as property destruction and sabotage, targeting entities linked to Israel.
Communications retrieved by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force show Washburn in contact with an individual posing as a PIJ fighter in Gaza. These messages suggest Washburn holds and expresses strong anti-Israel sentiments. In one message, she expressed a desire for days like the violent events of October 7th to continue. In another, she mentioned feeling enthusiastic about reports of Israeli soldiers being killed.
Financial records indicate Washburn made approximately 80 cryptocurrency transfers exceeding $30,000 to an account associated with a PIJ operative. U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo described her actions as motivated by intense hostility towards Israel and Jewish people.
FBI Counterterrorism Division’s Acting Assistant Director, Coult Markovsky, emphasized the dedication to holding accountable those who fund violent organizations. He reaffirmed the FBI’s commitment to disrupting financial support to terrorist groups through collaboration with the Justice Department.
Fox News Digital Editor Alexandra Koch has documented significant national incidents, including wildfires and aviation disasters, contributing to the national dialogue.
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