Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – An Idaho teenager, Alexander Scott Mercurio, was apprehended by authorities for allegedly plotting to carry out attacks against churchgoers in his hometown in the name of the Islamic State group, as stated by authorities. Mercurio’s arrest was part of an FBI investigation by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, occurring a day before the planned attacks were set to take place.
According to a federal criminal complaint filed in Idaho on Monday, Mercurio faces charges of attempting to provide support and resources to ISIS. Investigators revealed that he had detailed plans to launch attacks on churches in Coeur d’Alene, utilizing various weapons like knives, firearms, and fire. The timing of the attacks coincided with the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
In a message to an FBI informant, Mercurio outlined his intentions to storm churches, causing harm to as many individuals as possible before destroying the buildings and fleeing. Prosecutors indicated that he had intended to repeat these actions at 21 different churches in the town.
If convicted, Mercurio could face up to 20 years in federal prison. The court date for his case has not been scheduled yet, and it is unclear if he has retained legal representation. Law enforcement officials discovered an array of weapons and materials at Mercurio’s residence during his arrest, including an ISIS flag, butane canisters, lighters, handcuffs, knives, and firearms belonging to his father.
Furthermore, investigators found that Mercurio had been disseminating ISIS propaganda online, discussing financial support for the extremist group, and exploring the possibility of traveling to West Africa to assist in their operations. The FBI’s attention was drawn to Mercurio during an inquiry into a fundraising network aiding ISIS affiliates in Syria and Afghanistan.
Following the arrest, Attorney General Merrick Garland commended the FBI’s efforts in preventing an act of terrorism, emphasizing the importance of thwarting self-radicalization within communities. FBI Director Christopher Wray condemned Mercurio’s actions as part of a “truly horrific plan,” underscoring the dangers posed by individuals radicalized through extremist ideologies.