An update on this story. It seems highly likely the defense may claim “entrapment,” despite the evidence. But the sting operations that are decried as such have been a crucial tool in numerous cases in steering those with the intent to commit mass murder into a controlled “off-ramp” from active plotting into jail. “Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif and Walli Mujahid indicted on terror charges,” from Q13 Fox, July 7 (thanks to Kenneth):
Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif, 33, and Walli Mujahidh, 32, were indicted Thursday. The two men were indicted by a federal grand jury on nine counts related to their attempt to attack a military center in Seattle.
Abdul-Latif, also known as Joseph Anthony Davis and Mujahidh, also known as Frederick Domingue, have been held in custody since they were apprehended June 22 in a sting operation coordinated by the FBI, Seattle Police Department and Joint Terrorism Task Force.
The charges against them include conspiracy to murder officers and agents and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction.
Abdul-Latif is charged with solitication of a crime of violence, two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and two counts of possession of firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence.
Mujahidh is charged with possession of firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence and unlawful possession of a firearm.
“This serves as a stark reminder that we must remain vigilant against those t hat would seek to carry out attacks here at home,” said Jenny A. Durkan. Durkan is the U.S. attorney for the western district of Washington.
Abdul-Latif and Mujahidh face life in prison if convicted. Both men pleaded not guilty.