Woman accused of plotting bomb attack on New York State Capitol

A 35-year-old woman is facing a federal terrorism charge after prosecutors accused her of plotting to detonate a bomb at the New York State Capitol.

(NBC)- A 35-year-old woman is facing a federal terrorism charge after prosecutors accused her of plotting to detonate a bomb at the New York State Capitol.

Federal authorities say Jessica Bowie was seen surveilling the Capitol building in July while wearing all black and covering her face.

Investigators say Bowie later went to a Home Depot in early August and purchased materials, including a large bin of nails, intended for an explosive device. Undercover FBI agents allegedly pretended to assemble the device for her before meeting with Bowie and arresting her.

“Make no mistake about it — Miss Bowie’s alleged plot was serious,” said Craig Tremaroli, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Albany Field Office.

According to charging documents, Bowie converted to Islam about five years ago and began using the name “Aisha Saif.” Prosecutors allege she began making threatening and anti-American posts on social media in recent months, including a post praising the Sept. 11 attacks.

Federal investigators also allege Bowie pledged allegiance to ISIS through multiple audio recordings in both English and Arabic.

Undercover FBI agents began exchanging messages with Bowie, who authorities say planned to conceal the explosive device inside a DoorDash delivery bag.

According to charging documents, Bowie told the undercover agents she wanted to destroy as much of the Capitol building as possible and kill senators while they were meeting.

Bowie appeared in court but has not yet entered a plea.

Authorities say that after being read her Miranda rights, Bowie indicated she was aware she could face terrorism charges and expected to go to jail.