Chilling new details have been revealed in a Tucson man's plot for terror attacks. Eighteen-year-old Mahin Khan was back in court today. The Tucson teen is facing charges of planning carry out attacks in Pima and Maricopa counties using assault weapons and explosives.
His targets in Tucson included the Jewish Community Center and an Air Force Recruiting Center. At a bond hearing on Tuesday, an FBI agent from the joint terrorism task force testified about Khan's plans.
"Mr. Khan referenced the recent Orlando terrorist, attacks, the Pluse nightclub shooting and said that it was great," said Benjamin Trentlage. "He admitted to targeting the MVD in Mesa, Arizona. He said that he would have used an improvised hand grenade device from Inspire Magazine to carry out that attack. He said that he wanted to inspire people, and to create an insurgency in America, to inspire people to carry out attacks like Brussels and Paris and to target law enforcement officers."
"In his written statement, Mr. Khan addressed the Islamic community at large, and stated that it was the obligation and duty to bring terror in their backyards," said Trentlage. "He said it was time to rise and slaughter the Kafir, meaning the non-believers or non-muslims. He described himself as a failed jihadist and expressed that he hoped that other jihadists would learn from his mistakes."
Khan added that he didn't target an MVD in Tucson because it was too close to a Sheriffs' department substation.
The Tucson Jewish Community Center released the following statement from President and CEO Todd Rockoff
"The Tucson Jewish Community Center (The Tucson J) has just learned about information released during today's Federal Court proceedings in Phoenix relating to the individual accused of plotting terrorism. It was reported today, that over a year ago in a conversation with an undercover FBI agent, the suspect identified the Tucson J as one of several possible targets in Arizona.
The Tucson J is very mindful of security issues and our priority is to protect our members, guests and community. We are continually vigilant and are in touch with our local law enforcement agencies on an ongoing basis, including today, to insure our members are safe and secure.
One of our primary concerns and responsibilities as as community center, is maintaining the security of all those involved here.
We continually evaluate our procedures and will maintain communication with local authorities."
Khan has been on the FBI's radar since 2013. Khan is due back in court Wednesday morning.
