Alexander Scott Mercurio, an 18-year-old resident of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, was arrested on Saturday, April 6, 2024, by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) for allegedly planning to carry out attacks on behalf of ISIS. Mercurio’s intentions included attacking individuals at churches in Coeur d’Alene using knives, firearms, and fire on April 7.
The arrest was made following an investigation by the JTTF, which uncovered Mercurio’s allegiance to ISIS and his violent intentions. According to the affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, Mercurio pledged his loyalty to ISIS and planned to commit attacks in its name. The FBI acted swiftly to prevent any harm, and Mercurio is currently in custody awaiting his initial court appearance.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland commented on the arrest, stating, “The defendant swore an oath of loyalty to ISIS and planned to wage an attack in its name on churches in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Thanks to the investigative efforts of the FBI, the defendant was taken into custody before he could act, and he is now charged with attempting to support ISIS’s mission of terror and violence.”
FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the FBI’s commitment to preventing acts of terrorism, stating, “This investigation demonstrates the FBI’s steadfast commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to stop those who wish to commit acts of violence on behalf of – or inspired by – foreign terrorist groups.”
U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit for the District of Idaho praised the FBI’s efforts in thwarting the alleged plot, stating, “Across the Department of Justice, and in my office, we have no higher calling than to protect our nation and our communities from terrorism.”
Mercurio is charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The FBI is investigating the case with the assistance of the Coeur d’Alene Police Department, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, and Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activity, stating, “Protecting the American people from terrorism remains the FBI’s number one priority, and we continue to encourage the public to report anything suspicious to the FBI or your local law enforcement.”
Mercurio is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
