Buffalo, New York — Federal prosecutors charged an Irondequoit woman with attempting to provide material support to Palestine Islamic Jihad, a designated foreign terrorist organization also known as Al-Quds Brigades.
The Justice Department said Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, was arrested Tuesday and accused of sending currency through cryptocurrency transfers to an account used by a Gaza-based PIJ fighter. Prosecutors said financial records show about 80 transfers totaling roughly $30,116.
According to the complaint, Washburn helped lead the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation, which prosecutors described as a group formed after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel. Federal officials alleged the group rejected peaceful protest and promoted “direct action,” including property destruction and sabotage.
Washburn made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Pederson in the Western District of New York. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo said Washburn allegedly went to “great lengths” to finance violence. The charge is an allegation, and Washburn is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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