Springfield man convicted of using cryptocurrency to fund ISIS operations
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According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney, evidence at trial showed that Chhipa carried out a multi-year scheme to provide funds to female ISIS supporters in Syria from at least October 2019 to 2022.
Chhipa's main contact was a British-born Syrian ISIS operative who directly supported ISIS fighters. Throughout the conspiracy, Chhipa wired a total of more than $185,000 worth of cryptocurrency, converting money he collected online and in person into cash. He then converted these donations into cryptocurrency and sent them to intermediaries in Turkey after receiving legal donations through electronic transfers and cash.
The convictions include conspiracy to provide financial support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing or attempting to provide such support. Chhipa faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count, with sentencing set for May 5, 2025. Because the sentence could be less than the statutory maximum, the sentence in this case will be determined by the federal district court after considering applicable guidelines and factors.
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