The suspect, Christian Sturdivant, who turned 18 last month, was arrested for allegedly planning an attack targeting civilians. According to investigators, the suspect intended to carry out a knife and hammer attack against random individuals. Allegedly stating, “the U.S would pay for their retaliatory attack on ISIS.”
The investigation began in 2022, when Sturdivant was still a minor, after authorities became aware of online activity indicating extremist radicalization. The investigation revealed that the suspect consumed ISIS-related propaganda, accessed extremist websites, and posted concerning content on social media platforms.
During the course of the investigation, Sturdivant made contact with individuals he believed to be members of ISIS. These individuals were, in fact, undercover law enforcement officers with the NYPD and later the FBI. During these interactions, the suspect pledged allegiance to ISIS and disclosed his plans to “do jihad soon,” language commonly associated with ISIS propaganda.
During a lawful search of the individual’s home, investigators found documents titled “New Year’s Eve Attack” with a list of goals like “stab as many civilians as possible with a goal of 20-21.” Along with a handwritten note pledging to jihad, and notes that mentioned seeking “Pure destruction on America and the West.”
Sturdivant was allegedly communicating with a member of ISIS who convinced him to carry out a knife attack on his neighbor with a knife and hammer. He was stopped and restrained by his grandfather before walking out the door.
Last month, the FBI alerted Sturdivant’s social media page after posting threats. One post used alleged language of “constant ISIS historic practices” calling for the extermination of non-believers.
He sent the undercover a photo of a hammer and a knife and made the hand sign of shahada, an Islamic oath. This hand gesture has been used in previous ISIS attacks. The suspect had also allegedly tried to obtain a gun the day after Christmas through the undercover FBI agent while talking about planning an attack.
Sturdivant mentioned he would be targeting Christian, pagans, and the LGBTQ+ community.
During the search of his home, investigators also found a hammer and notes referring to “Burger King Jahid,” and that plan B was an attack on a grocery store.
On New Year’s Eve, Sturdivant was arrested before he could carry out any acts of violence. He made his initial appearance in federal court on January 2nd and now faces charges that carry a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
