Ammaad Akhtar, a 33-year-old resident of Stockton, was arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS), according to Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith.
Court documents reveal that since February 2025, Akhtar had been in communication with an individual he believed to be an ISIS member. This individual was actually controlled by law enforcement. During these exchanges, Akhtar expressed his support for ISIS and jihad, showed interest in traveling overseas to join ISIS, and mentioned plans to send guns and money.
In April 2025, Akhtar provided financial support on several occasions as part of the investigation. The law enforcement-controlled individual later informed him that the funds were used by ISIS to acquire guns. In response, Akhtar said, “may Allah destroy our enemies” and promised additional financial contributions.
Akhtar also discussed violent plans including targeting a specific person and using homemade explosives for attacks. He expressed a desire “to die in the cause of Allah fighting the kuffar [infidels]” and sought guidance on creating explosive devices for use at crowded events.
On June 23, 2025, Akhtar met with someone he thought was an ISIS associate but who was actually an undercover employee. During this meeting, he handed over clothing, binoculars, $400 cash, two loaded firearms, and six magazines before pledging loyalty to ISIS.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York and Sacramento Field Offices along with the New York City Police Department conducted this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Wong alongside Trial Attorney Ryan D. White from the National Security Division are handling prosecution duties.
If found guilty, Akhtar could face up to 20 years imprisonment along with a $250,000 fine. Sentencing would depend on court discretion after considering statutory factors alongside Federal Sentencing Guidelines which consider various elements. It is important to note that charges are allegations; Akhtar remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
