EL PASO, Texas — New charges were filed Friday against a 19-year-old accused of planning to fight with a Somalian terrorist organization and supply it with night-vision goggles and bulletproof vests.
Mark Robert Walker of suburban Rochester, N.Y., was charged with attempting or conspiring to contribute goods or services to a specially designated global terrorist organization.
The group, Ittihad Al Islamiya, has been listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. government.
The new charge carries a maximum jail sentence of 10 years and fine of $50,000.
Previously filed charges of providing support or resources to a foreign terrorist organization, which carried a maximum sentence of 15 years and fine of $250,000, were dropped.
Assistant U.S. Atty. Greg McDonald declined comment after the short hearing.
"After reviewing the evidence, the new charge more accurately reflects what the investigation uncovered," said Daryl Fields, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office.
