World\Americas

Man convicted of detonating bombs in NYC

Updated: 2017-10-17 06:53

NEW YORK — The US attorney's office said the crimes of a New Jersey man convicted of planting two bombs on New York City streets have been met with "swift and resolute justice".

Acting US Attorney Joon H. Kim issued a statement Monday shortly after a Manhattan jury found 29-year-old Ahmad Khan Rahimi guilty of all charges. Rahimi faces a maximum punishment of life in prison.

Prosecutors said Rahimi considered himself "a soldier in a holy war against Americans" and was inspired by the Islamic State group and al-Qaida to carry out the Sept 17, 2016, attacks.

The Afghanistan-born Rahimi is charged with setting off a bomb in the Chelsea neighborhood that injured 30 people. He's also accused of detonating a bomb along a charity race in Seaside Park, New Jersey. No one was injured in that case.

Rahimi was captured in September 2016 after a shootout with police in New Jersey.

Kim said, "Today's verdict is a victory for New York City, a victory for America in its fight against terror, and a victory for all who believe in the cause of justice."

The defense said it will appeal. Sentencing is set for Jan 18.

AP