1st Of 3 Men In NC Terror Ring Sentenced To Prison

Published January 13, 2012 6:18PM (EST)

NEW BERN, N.C. (AP) — A North Carolina man convicted of participating in a home-grown terrorism ring has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Federal Judge Louise Flanigan in New Bern sentenced 24-year-old Mohammad Hassan on Friday after his conviction for providing support to terrorists.

Prosecutors said Hassan used his Facebook account and Internet forums to post comments and videos encouraging Muslims to fight those who didn't agree with establishing mandatory religious law.

Hassan and two other men being sentenced Friday were among eight who federal investigators say raised money, stockpiled weapons and trained for jihadist attacks against American military targets and others they deemed enemies.

Their convictions have stirred the Muslim community in the Raleigh area where they lived. The courtroom was packed with dozens of supporters.


By Salon Staff

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