Federal authorities in the United States have announced the arrest of Jessica Bowie, 35, who is accused of plotting to carry out a terrorist attack targeting the New York State Capitol building in Albany. The Department of Justice stated that Bowie pledged loyalty to ISIL (ISIS) and obtained materials for an explosive device.

The alleged plot was reportedly thwarted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who have charged Bowie with providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The US has designated ISIL as a “foreign terrorist organisation” since 2004.

According to a 21-page complaint filed by the FBI, Bowie, an Albany resident, expressed support for terrorism on social media, including a post referencing the September 11th attacks. The investigation gained momentum in July when an FBI informant began communicating with Bowie via encrypted applications.

Bowie allegedly discussed her desire to build a bomb and identified the state capitol as her target. Court documents indicate she stated an intention to "destroy as much of the building as possible and kill the senators." She reportedly received $200 from an informant to purchase bomb-making materials from Home Depot, and was photographed allegedly using the store's self-checkout. She also allegedly took photographs outside the capitol building as part of a "reconnaissance" operation.

Further complicating the case, Bowie also allegedly purchased a firearm and ammunition from an informant, who then provided her with instructions on their use. The FBI arrested Bowie on Wednesday.

During questioning, Bowie acknowledged her awareness of the potential legal consequences, reportedly stating she had already researched the penalties for material support, which can carry up to 20 years in prison. Her arrest highlights the ongoing reliance of US counter-terrorism efforts on confidential informants and undercover operations.

The Justice Department has emphasized that investigators intervened before Bowie could execute her plans. John A. Eisenberg, the assistant attorney general for national security, stated that the plot aimed to "bring terror to the Capital Region" and that Bowie allegedly intended to flee to Syria after the attack.

This incident is the latest in a series of cases where US authorities have claimed to have foiled attacks, often involving individuals inspired by or pledging allegiance to foreign terrorist groups. The use of informants in such investigations, while effective, has also drawn scrutiny regarding the tactics employed.