NY Woman Charged with Funding Terror Group, Praising Oct. 7 Attacks
A New York woman has been arrested and charged with allegedly funneling tens of thousands of dollars to a designated Palestinian terrorist organization, according to federal authorities. Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, of Irondequoit, a Rochester suburb, faces federal charges for attempting to provide material support to Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a group the U.S. government classifies as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. If convicted, Washburn could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
Allegations of Extremist Leadership and Financial Support
The Justice Department alleges that Washburn was the leader of a radical group known as the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL). This organization reportedly emerged following the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. DAMPL, as described in the federal complaint, explicitly rejects peaceful protest methods, favoring instead what it terms “direct action.” This can include acts of sabotage and property destruction targeting entities perceived to be associated with Israel.
Investigators recovered communications that appear to show Washburn expressing extreme anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiments. In messages exchanged with an individual identified as an active PIJ fighter in Gaza, Washburn allegedly stated a strong hatred for Jewish people and a desire for Israel’s elimination. One particularly striking accusation is that Washburn wrote, “I wish every day were October 7th.” She is also accused of stating, “If I lived in Gaza, I would fight alongside the resistance,” and expressing excitement over news of Israeli soldier deaths.
Extensive Cryptocurrency Transfers Detailed
U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo characterized Washburn’s alleged actions as going to “great lengths” to finance violence, fueled by a deep-seated animosity towards Israel and its Jewish population. Evidence presented includes financial records indicating that Washburn made approximately 80 cryptocurrency transfers. These transactions, totaling over $30,000, were reportedly sent to an account utilized by the PIJ fighter.
In a message from November 2025, Washburn allegedly made a dark joke about her activities, writing, “Based on my passed [sic] fundraising and posting Im [sic] gonna get put away for a few life times,” accompanied by a laughing emoji. This statement, authorities suggest, indicates an awareness of the illicit nature of her actions.
FBI’s Commitment to Combating Terrorist Financing
Coult Markovsky, Acting Assistant Director of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, emphasized the bureau’s dedication to holding individuals accountable for supporting violent organizations. “This individual, as alleged in the criminal complaint, provided money to a foreign terrorist organization engaged in acts of violence,” Markovsky stated. “The FBI is committed to cutting off funding to terrorist groups and will continue to work side-by-side with our Justice Department partners to make sure anyone who engages in terrorism or provides assistance to such organizations is held fully accountable in our justice system.”
The investigation involved the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which analyzed the recovered communications and financial data. The charges against Washburn underscore the ongoing efforts by federal law enforcement to disrupt financial flows to designated terrorist groups and prosecute individuals involved in such activities.
The PIJ, the group Washburn is accused of supporting, has been responsible for numerous attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. Its stated goal is the destruction of the state of Israel. The formation of groups like DAMPL, allegedly advocating for violent “direct action,” highlights concerns among law enforcement about radicalization and the potential for domestic support of foreign terrorist organizations.
Broader Context of Domestic Extremism
This case is part of a broader trend that federal agencies have been monitoring, where individuals, sometimes motivated by extremist ideologies, attempt to provide support to foreign terrorist groups. The use of cryptocurrency for such transactions presents unique challenges for investigators seeking to trace financial flows. However, as demonstrated in this case, law enforcement agencies are developing sophisticated methods to track and intercept these funds.
The charges against Washburn serve as a stark reminder that involvement with designated terrorist organizations, whether through direct action or financial support, carries severe legal consequences. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI have reiterated their commitment to vigorously prosecuting such cases to protect national security and prevent violence.
