An Albany woman was arrested Wednesday on charges of plotting to bomb the New York statehouse, according to federal prosecutors. The suspect, who had allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, is accused of discussing her plans with FBI informants and conducting reconnaissance missions at the building.
Prosecutors stated that the woman selected the New York statehouse in Albany because she believed it would be an easier target than the White House. She allegedly told undercover agents that she wanted her actions to "have an affect on the American system."
According to the charging documents, the woman visited the statehouse at least five times to scout the location for her planned attack. She reportedly discussed hiding a bomb in a food delivery bag and asked agents if nails would be effective as shrapnel. Investigators reportedly provided her with $200 to purchase bomb-making materials from a local hardware store, and she was driven to a Home Depot by the undercover operatives.
During her arrest, the woman was found to be carrying knives and a written oath of allegiance to the Islamic State group. It remains unclear whether she intends to contest the charges.