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Woman accused in NY Capitol bombing plot has history of mental illness
Times Union • • nation
Key Points:
- Jessica Bowie, a 35-year-old Albany mother with a history of mental illness, was arrested on federal charges for allegedly plotting to bomb the New York State Capitol building after swearing allegiance to ISIS.
- Bowie, who converted to Islam five years ago, communicated with undercover FBI informants posing as ISIS members and planned an attack using a gun and explosives, intending to flee to an ISIS-controlled area afterward.
- Federal authorities detailed her extensive planning, including multiple visits to the Capitol and purchasing bomb-making materials, with informants convincing her that ISIS commanders supported her plot.
- Bowie’s family members noted her past mental health struggles and expressed surprise at her radicalization, while the FBI continues to hold her in custody pending further court proceedings.
- The investigation began after Bowie posted anti-American messages online and escalated in July when a confidential informant engaged her through encrypted communications.
