Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Supporting ISIS

Steve Burns

WMAL.com

WASHINGTON – (WMAL) A Maryland man has pleaded guilty to providing material support for ISIS, according to prosecutors. Mohamed Elshinawy, 32, of Edgewood, faces a maximum of 48 years in prison.

Prosecutors allege Elshinawy worked with others to help ISIS in the form of sending it money, supplies, and people. In secret communications, Elshinawy said he was ready to travel to ISIS strongholds and professed his loyalty to its mission. Prosecutors said he also committed to performing “violent jihad” himself.

Prosecutors also accused him of lying to the FBI in its initial investigation, providing an incorrect figure for how much money he received from a foreign company looking to bankroll his operations. He repeatedly mischaracterized and lied about his involvement as well, prosecutors said.

His part in the conspiracy, prosecutors said, lasted from February to December 2015.