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FBI says it disrupted a New Year's Eve plot inspired by Islamic State
Summary
The FBI arrested 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant in North Carolina after he communicated alleged attack plans to an undercover agent, and he was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.
Content
Federal agents arrested 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant after reporting that he planned attacks at a grocery store and a fast-food restaurant in Mint Hill, North Carolina, on New Year's Eve. Officials said Sturdivant communicated his plans on social media and spoke with someone he believed supported him but who was an undercover FBI employee. He was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and remained in custody after a Friday court appearance. The U.S. Attorney declined to name the specific businesses as the investigation continues.
Key facts:
- Christian Sturdivant, 18, was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.
- Officials said he communicated alleged attack plans on social media with an undercover FBI employee who posed as a supportive contact.
- The alleged targets were a grocery store and a fast-food restaurant in Mint Hill, a Charlotte bedroom community; officials declined to name them due to the ongoing investigation.
- An FBI affidavit says he was on the bureau's radar in January 2022 after contact with an Islamic State member in Europe and an incident in which he armed himself with a hammer and a knife but was restrained by his grandfather.
- A federal hearing is scheduled for Jan. 7, and reporting said he remained held after a Friday morning court appearance.
Summary:
The arrest reportedly halted an alleged plot that officials say targeted local businesses on New Year's Eve and highlights the FBI's use of undercover sting operations. The case is moving through federal court with a hearing set for Jan. 7, and reporting has noted concerns raised by critics about the potential for entrapment.
