New York Woman Arrested for Alleged Ties to Palestinian Terrorist Group

A woman from New York has been arrested for allegedly supporting a Palestinian terrorist group. Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, from Irondequoit, faces charges of attempting to provide material support to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. If found guilty, she could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

Allegations and Group Involvement

Washburn led a group called the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL), formed after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, according to the Justice Department. DAMPL is reported to reject peaceful protests, preferring acts of sabotage against organizations they associate with Israel.

“I wish every day were October 7th,” Washburn allegedly said in a communication recovered by the FBI.

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force discovered communications in which she expressed hatred towards Jewish people and voiced support for the resistance in Gaza.

Financial Support and Communications

Washburn is accused of sending around 80 cryptocurrency transfers, totaling more than $30,000, to an account linked to a PIJ fighter. A message from November 2025 showed her joking about her activities, mentioning, “Based on my passed [sic] fundraising… I’m gonna get put away for a few lifetimes,” followed by a laughing emoji.

Legal Actions and Statements

U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo highlighted her efforts to finance violence based on her hatred towards Israel and Jewish people. The Acting Assistant Director of the FBI Counterterrorism Division, Coult Markovsky, emphasized that those supporting violent organizations would face consequences.

“The FBI is committed to cutting off funding to terrorist groups and will continue to work with our Justice Department partners to ensure accountability,” Markovsky stated.

Washburn’s arrest is part of ongoing efforts to hold accountable those who engage in or support terrorism.

Note: This information reflects recent developments concerning terrorism-related charges within the United States.