A New York woman was arrested for allegedly supplying financial support to a Palestinian terrorist group. Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, from Irondequoit, near Rochester, is accused of attempting to aid the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) by providing material support. This organization is recognized as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. If found guilty, Washburn may face up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

Washburn led an extremist group named the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL). This group formed following the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas. According to the Justice Department, DAMPL does not support peaceful protests but prefers ‘direct action’, which involves property destruction and sabotage against entities linked to Israel.

“I wish every day were October 7th,” Washburn allegedly stated in a communication.

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force uncovered messages between Washburn and an individual identified as a PIJ fighter in Gaza. In these exchanges, she expressed strong anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiments, wishing for Israel’s disappearance. Additionally, she allegedly expressed excitement over the news of the deaths of Israeli soldiers.

Financial transactions suggest Washburn sent over $30,000 through 80 cryptocurrency transfers to an account connected to the PIJ fighter. In one message, she humorously remarked on her illegal activities, implying she would face severe consequences.

U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo remarked on Washburn’s extensive efforts to support violence, fueled by her animosity towards Israel and Jewish individuals. The Acting Assistant Director of the FBI Counterterrorism Division, Coult Markovsky, emphasized that aiding violent organizations will lead to accountability. The FBI remains dedicated to disrupting financial support for terrorist groups in collaboration with the Justice Department.