US authorities have charged a New York woman with allegedly planning an Islamic State-inspired attack on the state's capitol building in Albany, the justice department announced on Thursday.
Jessica Bowie, 35, of Albany, was charged with intending to deploy an explosive device at the state capitol. Her alleged aim was to kill public officials and destroy "as much of the building as possible" before fleeing to IS-controlled territory in Syria, according to John A Eisenberg, assistant attorney general for national security.
Ms Bowie was apprehended on Wednesday after she gained possession of what she thought was an explosive device, the justice department said. The department also stated she had been seen visiting the capitol grounds and taking photographs of the building.
The justice department reported that Ms Bowie described the building as her target and expressed a desire for the attack to have an "affect on the American system." She had reportedly shared anti-American messages online, including celebrating the September 11 attacks.
Following Ms Bowie's arrest, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the state has taken steps to strengthen security at the capitol and across government. She added that while there is no immediate threat, authorities will continue to work with law enforcement to protect New Yorkers.