Al-Shabaab Press Conference

The Attorney General addressing reporters concerning four indictments charging 14 individuals with terrorism violations for providing money and services to al-Shabaab. Two of the 14 indicted have been arrested. The indictments in Minnesota, Alabama, and California shed further light on a deadly pipeline that as routed funding and fighters to al-Shabaab from cities across the united States.

Mr. Todd Jones, U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota relates the involvement of his office in these indictments. The indictment unsealed in Minnesota charged 10 men with terrorism offenses for leaving the United States to join al-Shabaab as foreign fighters. Seven of these defendants had been previously charged by either indictment or criminal complaint. In Minnesota alone, a total of 19 defendants have been charged in connection with this investigation. Nine of these defendants have been arrested in the United States or overseas, five of whom pleaded guilty, the other 10 are believed to be overseas.

Members of the press react to an unexpectedly light moment during the press conference.

Laura E. Duffy, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California and Todd Jones, U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota stand on the stage listening to the Attorney General. According to the Attorney General, members of the American Muslim community have been and continue to be strong partners in fighting this emerging threat. They have regularly denounced terrorist acts and those who carry them out. And they have provided critical assistance to law enforcement in helping to disrupt terrorist plots and combat radicalization.