A U.S. Army soldier is now in federal custody after conspiring with someone, who he thought was a member of ISIS, to plan an attack against a landmark in New York City and his fellow troops overseas.
According to ABC News, Cole James Bridges is currently charged with attempting to murder U.S. service members and attempting to provide material support to ISIS. He reportedly spoke with an undercover FBI agent when he made plans to attack the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in NYC. He also tried to provide ISIS with strategic military advice to attack the troops that are stationed overseas.
“Our troops risk their lives for our country, but they should never face such peril at the hands of one of their own,” acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said. “Today, thanks to the efforts of the agents and detectives of the JTTF and our partners in the Department of Defense, Bridges is in custody and facing federal terrorism charges for his alleged crimes.”
During Birdges’ many conversations with the undercover agent, he expressed that he was frustrated with the U.S. military and wanted to help ISIS. He also gave the undercover cop training manuals and combat tactics for ISIS to use.
“Fortunately, the person with whom he communicated was an FBI employee, and we were able to prevent his evil desires from coming to fruition,” FBI Assistant Director Bill Sweeney said.
Earlier this month. Bridges gave the agent a recording of himself standing in front of a flag that is often used by members of ISIS. He also made a gesture that is symbolic of showing support for the terrorist organization. According to federal prosecutors, he used a voice manipulator in a second video to narrate an ISIS propaganda speech for their anticipated ambush on U.S. troops
Bridges is currently facing a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each charge.