COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO – An 18-year-old individual from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has been arrested by the FBI for devising a violent plan to attack churches in the area on behalf of ISIS, according to the Justice Department. Alexander Mercurio faces a federal charge of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, with the FBI uncovering his disturbing plot aimed at causing maximum casualties in the northern Idaho resort city.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force intervened in the situation, thwarting Mercurio’s alleged plans that included incapacitating his father, stealing firearms to use in the attack, and targeting individuals attending local churches. FBI Director Christopher Wray condemned the plan as “truly horrific,” emphasizing the agency’s commitment to preventing acts of terrorism within the United States.
Attorney General Merrick Garland echoed Wray’s sentiments, pledging to relentlessly pursue and hold accountable individuals who seek to commit acts of terrorism on U.S. soil. The arrest of Mercurio serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats posed by extremist ideologies and the importance of law enforcement efforts in preventing violent attacks.
According to a criminal complaint, the investigation into Mercurio’s activities began when he expressed support for ISIS and other terrorist organizations online. The FBI detailed Mercurio’s propaganda efforts, discussions about joining ISIS overseas, and plans to financially support the terrorist group before honing in on a specific church in Coeur d’Alene where he intended to carry out the attack.
During a search of Mercurio’s residence, FBI agents reportedly discovered items linked to the plot, including weapons and other paraphernalia mentioned in the complaint. The FBI investigator highlighted Mercurio’s allegiance to ISIS and his intention to die while carrying out the attack as part of his commitment to the terrorist organization.
Mercurio now faces the possibility of a 20-year prison sentence if convicted on the federal charge of attempting to provide support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the crucial role of law enforcement in preventing extremist violence on American soil.