Man In Islamic State Case Up For Sentencing In Chicago
By Michael Tarm, Associated PressMan In Islamic State Case Up For Sentencing In Chicago
By Michael Tarm, Associated PressCHICAGO (AP) — A 21-year-old from suburban Chicago whose mother denounced Islamic State is being sentenced in federal court for trying to travel to join IS militants.
Mohammed Hamzah Khan faces a maximum 15-year sentence for seeking to provide material support to terrorists when sentenced Friday in Chicago.
He was arrested attempting to board at a Chicago airport bound for Syria. Prosecutors say two younger siblings were with him but weren’t charged.
Zarine Khan told reporters last year that IS brainwashed youths via social media and declared to IS leaders: “Leave our children alone!”
Prosecutors cite Khan’s cooperation identifying IS recruiters in requesting a reduced 5-year sentence. Defense lawyer Thomas Durkin wants 3 years sentence. With time served, that could mean his release next year. Durkin says Khan will enter college once freed.