Terrorism Trials & Investigations

U.S. Navy / Ben Balter (background)

Terrorism is increasingly complicating the traditional dichotomy between criminal conduct and acts of war. More than ever, policymakers, legal scholars and the public are debating the appropriate roles for civil and military actors in investigating and prosecuting terrorists and terrorism. Today, the United States continues to grapple with a range of dilemmas, from the proper forum for prosecution to the extent of the rights accused. Should accused terrorists be tried by a civilian jury or military commission? Should they be read their Miranda rights? Should their defense attorneys be permitted to review the evidence against their clients?

Latest in Terrorism Trials & Investigations

Domestic Terrorism

Documents: Maryland Federal Prosecutors Charge Man Who Plotted ISIS-Inspired Vehicular Attack

On Monday, the Maryland U.S. attorney's office alleged in a motion for detention pending trial that Rondell Henry stole a U-Haul with the intent of ramming the vehicle into crowds of people at National Harbor in Potomac, Maryland. Henry was arrested on April 3 pursuant to a criminal complaint charging him with interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle. A motion for pretrial detention explained that Henry poses a flight risk and public safety threat by revealing that his actions were inspired by the Islamic State and the 2016 truck attack in Nice, France.

Terrorism Trials & Investigations

International Terrorism Prosecutions: 2018 Wrap-Up

In the past few months, prosecutors have tried, juries have convicted, and judges have sentenced defendants from the height of the Islamic State’s power in 2014–15. Meanwhile, American law enforcement continues to prosecute individuals involved in terrorist-related crimes in the United States, even as new challenges—like prosecuting foreign Islamic State fighters—arise.

Terrorism Trials & Investigations

Document: Criminal Complaint Against Cesar Sayoc

The FBI has taken custody of Cesar Altieri Sayoc in connection with the attempted mailing of 13 pipe bombs to prominent former government officials, including former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, and other public figures. The Department of Justice has brought five charges against Sayoc in the Southern District of New York.

Terrorism Trials & Investigations

Document: Federal Judge Grants Uzair Paracha's Motion for a New Trial

On July 3, a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted Uzair Paracha's motion for a new trial in light of new evidence. Paracha, a Pakistani citizen, was convicted in 2005 for allegedly helping an al-Qaeda operative gain travel documents and enter the United States.

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