An Irondequoit woman has been arrested on federal charges accusing her of attempting to provide financial support to a designated foreign terrorist organization through cryptocurrency transfers.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced that 37-year-old Catherine Washburn has been charged by criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support and resources to Palestine Islamic Jihad, also known as the Al-Quds Brigades.
If convicted, Washburn faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
According to federal prosecutors, Washburn is a leader of the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL), an extremist organization that authorities say was formed following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Investigators allege the group rejects peaceful protest in favor of direct action, including sabotage and property destruction, in support of the Palestinian cause.
The criminal complaint alleges that between late 2025 and early 2026, Washburn exchanged electronic messages with an individual who identified himself as a Palestine Islamic Jihad fighter in Gaza and claimed to have participated in attacks against Israel.
Federal investigators allege Washburn expressed support for the group’s activities and repeatedly praised attacks on Israeli forces and civilians. Authorities further allege she sent approximately 80 cryptocurrency transfers totaling about 30,116 USDC — equivalent to roughly $30,116 — to an account used by the individual.
According to the complaint, the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force recovered the messages while executing search warrants in February and March 2026. Investigators said financial records linked the cryptocurrency transfers to the account associated with the individual.
U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo said the defendant allegedly attempted to provide financial support to a terrorist organization despite knowing the legal risks.
Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg said the Justice Department will aggressively prosecute individuals who provide support to foreign terrorist organizations.
FBI Buffalo Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis II said providing financial support to designated terrorist organizations is a serious federal crime and that the FBI remains committed to identifying and stopping those who seek to finance terrorism or promote violent extremism.
