After attempting to join the Islamic State and providing the terrorist group with material support, a California man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison, in addition to 25 years of supervised release, according to reports.
Court documents indicate Nicholas Michael Teausant was arrested in March of 2014 in Canada en route to Syria, with the intent to join the Islamic State. Later that month, he was indicted on one count for his endeavor to provide the Islamic State with material support or resources. He pleaded guilty to the one count, without a plea agreement. Teausant was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge John Mendez of the Eastern District of California.
According to John Carlin, assistant attorney general for national security, this sentence holds Teausant accountable for his actions. Additionally, he said counterterrorism efforts are the National Security Division’s highest priority.
The investigation also indicated Teausant’s interest in violence was depicted on social media, among other outlets.
“Mr. Teausant was fixated on violence as documented by his social media posts, his pre-arrest statements, and the nature of the group he attempted to join,” Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip Talbert said. “His conduct was misguided and unacceptable. We appreciate the court’s thoughtful consideration of this case and its recognition of the seriousness of the offense. With the assistance of our investigative partners, we will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to provide material support to terrorist organizations.”
