18-year-old in Idaho planned to attack more than 21 churches on behalf of ISIS, feds say
Source: USA Today
18-year-old in Idaho planned to attack more than 21 churches on behalf of ISIS, feds say
Jonathan Limehouse
USA TODAY
Published 1:39 p.m. ET April 9, 2024 | Updated 1:45 p.m. ET April 9, 2024
An 18-year-old student from Idaho was arrested for planning to attack churchgoers in his hometown on behalf of ISIS, according to federal authorities.
Alexander Scott Mercurio, of Coeur dAlene, Idaho, is accused of "attempting to provide material support and resources to ISIS" and pledging his allegiance to the terrorist organization, a Justice Department news release said.
In addition to supporting ISIS, Mercurio allegedly conspired to attack individuals at over 21 churches in Coeur d'Alene on Sunday with various weapons including knives, guns and fire, according to the release.
Mercurio has been charged with "attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization," the Justice Department said. He could receive a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison if convicted.
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Read more: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/04/09/alexander-mercurio-idaho-isis/73260313007/