Victoria Jacobs, an Uzbekistan native, is facing trial for allegedly using cryptocurrency to fund terrorist groups in Syria and laundering contributions from supporters. This case marks the first-ever terrorism financing trial in the New York State court system.
The six-count indictment, filed in January 2023, accuses Jacobs of providing support for an act of terrorism, money laundering, and other crimes. According to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, this case highlights the resources and expertise of his office in combating terrorism and extremism globally.
In October 2018, Jacobs, also known as Bakhrom Talipov, saved notes on her cell phone asking for anonymous support through Bitcoin wallets for a new training camp for Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, a designated foreign terrorist organization. She also allegedly provided material support to this group and another terrorist training organization, Malhama Tactical, by laundering funds and purchasing Google Play gift cards for them.
Jacobs has pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, prosecutors have evidence of her purchasing military-style weapons and posting a video with a firearm in a Telegram chat, indicating her intent to use them in an unlawful manner.
Opening statements for this trial are expected on Tuesday, January 15, 2024, at 5:24 PM ET. The trial highlights the increasing use of cryptocurrency in funding and supporting terrorist activities and the efforts of law enforcement to combat it.
