Ex-National Guard Soldier Admits Plot to Aid ISIS

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 27, of Sterling, has pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), federal prosecutors announced today. The conviction underscores the ongoing threat of radicalization within the ranks and the persistent efforts of law enforcement to thwart terrorist activity on U.S. soil.

According to court documents, the plot began to unfold in March 2016 when a now-deceased ISIL member connected Jalloh with an FBI confidential human source (CHS). The ISIL operative was actively planning an attack within the United States and believed Jalloh and the CHS would be key participants. Jalloh openly discussed his radicalization, admitting he abandoned plans to re-enlist in the National Guard after becoming captivated by the online sermons of deceased Al-Qaeda leader Anwar al-Awlaki.

The statement of facts paints a chilling picture of a man consumed by violent extremism. Jalloh revealed to the CHS that he frequently contemplated carrying out an attack, even coming close to acting on those impulses. He boasted about his firearms proficiency and openly praised the 2015 Chattanooga shooter. He also referenced the 2009 Fort Hood massacre, indicating a desire to emulate that horrific event. Prior to connecting with the CHS, Jalloh had traveled to Africa, where he reportedly met with ISIL members in Nigeria and began communicating with the individual who ultimately introduced him to the FBI source.

The investigation revealed Jalloh didn’t just talk the talk; he attempted to walk the walk. He repeatedly tried to purchase assault rifles and handguns, eventually succeeding in buying a weapon he believed would be used in an ISIL-directed attack. Furthermore, Jalloh provided $500 in prepaid cash, believing it was a donation to ISIL, but it was actually received by an undercover FBI employee. “Attempting to provide material support to terrorists is a very serious crime,” stated U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente. “Jalloh attempted to help facilitate what he believed would be a terrorist attack here in Virginia.”

During a May 2016 meeting, Jalloh specifically suggested planning an attack during the month of Ramadan, deeming such operations “100 percent the right thing.” He also inquired about the timeline for an operation and sought assistance from the CHS in funneling funds to ISIL. Paul M. Abbate, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, emphasized that Jalloh “purchased a weapon…believing they would be used in an ISIL-directed attack on U.S. soil.”

Acting Assistant Attorney General Mary B. McCord stated that Mohamed Bailor Jalloh’s actions constitute an attempt to provide material support to ISIL through financial transfers, recruitment efforts, and the acquisition of weaponry. While sentencing details have not been released, Jalloh now faces significant prison time for his crimes. This case highlights the FBI and Department of Justice’s unwavering commitment to countering terrorism and protecting national security. The Joint Terrorism Task Force will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute individuals who seek to support foreign terrorist organizations.