A Minnesota man, aged 27, who previously fought for the Islamic State group in Syria, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. The man, a naturalized U.S. citizen, expressed remorse and cooperated with federal authorities, leading to a lower sentence recommendation by prosecutors.
U.S. District Judge Ann Montgomery described the case as 'extraordinary,' highlighting the man's journey from a loving Minnesota home to joining one of the world's most notorious terror organizations and later collaborating with the government.
During the sentencing, the man thanked the U.S. government for a second chance and addressed his parents and two young sons, who were rescued from a Syrian orphanage with federal assistance.
The man self-radicalized online and aided ISIS in carrying out its objectives, according to prosecutors. He was among a few Americans repatriated from Syria and Iraq to face charges related to terrorist activities.
His attorney argued that he was influenced as a teenager by extremist propaganda but had since rejected radical ideology and assisted in other terrorism cases.
Ultimately, Judge Montgomery sentenced him to 10 years, considering his cooperation, previous time served, and letters of support. The man had joined ISIS at 18, was injured in combat, and later used his computer skills to support the group.
Despite his past, efforts were made to reunite him with his children, who were found in a Syrian orphanage. His parents were granted custody of the children upon their arrival in the U.S.
As the man faced his sons in court, they smiled at him, marking a poignant moment in a complex and emotional case.
