Virginia Man Faces Decades in Jail for Supporting ISIS via Crypto Scam

A Virginia man has been convicted of providing material support to ISIS through a cryptocurrency scheme, facing a potential sentence of up to 80 years in prison. Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, was found guilty of multiple charges related to his financial activities that aided the terrorist organization.

Key Takeaways

• Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, convicted of supporting ISIS via cryptocurrency.
• Sent over $185,000 to ISIS from 2019 to 2022.
• Faces a maximum of 20 years in prison per count, with sentencing set for May 5.

Background of the Case

Chhipa, originally from India, became a U.S. citizen and was arrested in May 2023. The case was investigated by the FBI, which uncovered a complex scheme involving the transfer of funds to ISIS members in Syria. The investigation revealed that Chhipa had been active in supporting the terrorist organization from at least October 2019 until October 2022.

Details of the Conviction

The jury found Chhipa guilty on several counts, including:

1. Conspiracy to Provide Material Support: One count.
2. Providing Material Support: Four counts.

Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, leading to a potential total of 80 years if the sentences are served consecutively.

Financial Activities

Chhipa's financial activities included:

• Raising funds online through social media.
• Collecting money in person, traveling hundreds of miles.
• Converting funds to cryptocurrency for transfer.
• Sending money to Turkey, where it was smuggled to ISIS members in Syria.

The funds were allegedly used to finance the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and to support ongoing terrorist activities.

Co-Conspirators and Network

Chhipa's primary co-conspirator was identified as a British-born ISIS member residing in Syria. This individual was involved in raising funds for various terrorist activities, including:

• Prison escapes.
• Planning terrorist attacks.
• Supporting other ISIS fighters.

Implications of the Case

This conviction highlights the increasing use of cryptocurrency in financing terrorism. The case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking and prosecuting individuals who use digital currencies to support terrorist organizations. The FBI's investigation reflects a broader effort to combat the financial networks that sustain groups like ISIS.

Conclusion

As the sentencing date approaches, the case of Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by domestic and international terrorism. The use of cryptocurrency in these schemes poses new challenges for authorities, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and innovative strategies in combating terrorism financing.

Sources

• Virginia man faces decades in jail for supporting ISIS via crypto scam - UPI.com, upi.