Jessica Bowie, 35, has been charged in connection with an alleged plot to bomb the New York State Capitol, according to a criminal complaint.
Federal authorities apprehended Bowie as part of a sting operation. The complaint alleges that Bowie discussed bomb-building components and acquisition methods with two FBI informants. She is accused of purchasing materials at a Home Depot after one informant provided her with $200 for the supplies. The Justice Department released an image showing an individual in black clothing gathering items to construct an explosive device; the complaint identifies this person as Bowie, though the face is not visible in the image.
In addition to the bomb plot, the complaint states that Bowie inquired about obtaining a firearm from an informant. On Wednesday, she allegedly met with two informants and provided them with $150 to purchase a gun, a magazine, and ammunition. During this meeting, the informants reportedly displayed an inert explosive device, purportedly constructed with components Bowie had purchased, and demonstrated how to operate and detonate it when she was ready to proceed with an attack.