Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) thanked the law enforcement agencies whose coordinated investigation uncovered and stopped an alleged plot to attack the New York State Capitol before anyone was harmed.

“I want to sincerely thank the FBI, the New York State Police, the Albany Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service and every law enforcement professional involved in this investigation,” said Hawley. “Their vigilance, coordination and dedication helped uncover this alleged plot and prevent what could have been a devastating attack on our Capitol, our elected officials, the public and the state employees who work there every day. We are fortunate to have law enforcement professionals who remain vigilant against these threats, and we owe them our deepest gratitude for their service. We also recognize and appreciate the many state employees who come to work every day and help keep our state government running.”

According to federal authorities, Albany resident Jessica Bowie was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS after allegedly conducting surveillance of the Capitol, acquiring materials to make an explosive device and planning an attack intended to kill state senators and cause extensive damage to the building. The FBI's Albany Field Office led the investigation with assistance from the U.S. Secret Service, New York State Police and Albany Police Department.

Federal authorities said the investigation culminated in Bowie taking possession of what she believed was an explosive device before law enforcement apprehended her, preventing the alleged attack from taking place.