Feds Thwart ISIS-Inspired Terror Plot on New Year's Eve in North Carolina

Federal authorities have thwarted a major ISIS-inspired terror plot targeting New Year's Eve celebrations in North Carolina, according to the FBI and Justice Department announcements on CBS News' Face the Nation and a Friday press conference covered by CBS News. Eighteen-year-old Christian Sturdivant from the Charlotte area was arrested on December 31st as he left a medical facility, charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS, the foreign terrorist organization he pledged loyalty to in a voice recording.

FBI Special Agent in Charge detailed how the probe began when multiple FBI offices and the New York Police Department flagged Sturdivant's TikTok account, username Abu Barker Alami, for posts supporting ISIS. Federal search warrants revealed his communications with an unidentified ISIS member overseas, who directed him to dress in black, knock on doors, and attack with hammers and knives at crowded spots like a Mint Hill grocery store and fast-food restaurant. Sturdivant discussed ramming vehicles into crowds, echoing the Bourbon Street attack, and sought guns for a massacre, per the federal complaint.

Agents found hammers, knives hidden under his bed, attack notes, and a manifesto outlining plans during a search of his home and phone. The two-week investigation involved 24/7 surveillance by the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, ensuring no attack occurred amid holiday gatherings. U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson emphasized Sturdivant's year-long radicalization, noting he aimed to kill Americans in everyday places we frequent without fear.

This rapid intervention highlights ongoing vigilance against homegrown threats, with officials probing additional charges. No other major terrorist threats have surfaced in the U.S. in the past 48 hours.

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