Terrorism has drastically changed the landscape of the world, with impacts on global economies, relations, and social structures, all the while instilling fear and anxiety in civilians. Attacks carried out by violent and extreme radicals have occurred everywhere, from concert venues and supermarkets to universities and landmarks. Due to the nature of these crimes, they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. As such, if you are accused of aiding or supporting a foreign terrorist organization in Oklahoma, it is vital to connect with an Oklahoma City federal crime lawyer to help guide you through these serious charges.
What Constitutes a Foreign Terrorist Organization?
Under the laws of the United States, a terrorist organization typically represents any group that engages in premeditated and politically motivated violence, with attacks carried out against non-combat targets, most often civilians. The goal is to further their agenda, whether it be to spark a regime change or promote specific ideologies, by perpetrating these crimes on a large scale to gain news coverage and infamy. Foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) include groups like ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Segunda Marquetalia.
For an organization to be designated as an FTO by the United States government, you’ll find that they will take several factors into considerations, like the threat they pose to national security, if they target civilians, whether or not they are politically motivated, and if they are attempting to influence a larger audience through their actions.
What Does It Mean to Provide Material Support or Resources to an Organization?
Any act of terrorism in the United States is a federal offense. This includes providing material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations, as covered under 18 U.S. Code § 2339B. Essentially, material support or resources includes any property, including money, housing, safe houses, false documents, communication equipment, weapons, and transportation, as well as training or expert advice. This definition has expanded to include providing contact information to assist another person in joining an FTO, sharing links to fundraisers or websites, or attempting to join an FTO.
If you are accused of assisting or supporting an FTO, the penalties you can face are severe. Typically, this charge results in up to twenty years in federal prison, but if your assistance results in the death of another person, such as the FTO using weapons you provided, you can face up to life in prison.
You should note that to violate 18 U.S. Code § 2339B, the prosecution must be able to show that you know that the organization was a designated terrorist group or has engaged in terroristic activities.
As you can see, these charges can be incredibly severe, as terrorism is not something the United States takes lightly. That is why it is critical to connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney with the Jones Firm, LLC as soon as possible. Our team can examine the circumstances of your charges to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. Connect with us today to learn more.
