Trial delayed until April for Keys backpack bomb suspect

Author: the associated press
Published:
MGN

MIAMI (AP) – Trial has been delayed until April for a Florida Keys man charged with plotting to detonate a backpack bomb in support of the Islamic State terror group.

U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez agreed Wednesday to postpone trial for Harlem Suarez from next month until April 4. A mental competency hearing is set Jan. 27 for Suarez, whose lawyer says has been unable to assist in his defense and understand court proceedings.

Suarez is charged with attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and terrorism support.

The FBI says Suarez told an informant he wanted to detonate a backpack bomb on a Key West beach. He was arrested in July after officials say he took an inert device from an FBI employee posing as an Islamic State member.

 

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