- Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, of Irondequoit, N.Y., was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support and resources, namely currency, to the designated foreign terrorist organization Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ), also known as the Al-Quds Brigades. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
- According to the complaint, Washburn is a leader of the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL), an extremist organization formed after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. Prosecutors allege DAMPL rejects peaceful protest in favor of “direct action,” including sabotage and property destruction, and that Washburn sent approximately 80 cryptocurrency transfers totaling about $30,000 to an individual who claimed to be a PIJ fighter in Gaza.
- Federal investigators said searches conducted in February and March 2026 uncovered messages in which Washburn allegedly praised attacks against Israel, stated, “I wish every day were October 7th,” expressed hatred toward Jews, and discussed weapons, ammunition and purported PIJ operations with the recipient. She made her initial appearance in federal court in Buffalo and remains charged by criminal complaint.
Islamic Extremism