Dec. 14 – An Indiana man was sentenced to more than 16 years in prison Wednesday in connection with a scheme to manufacture untraceable weapons and supply them to ISIS. Moyad Dannon, 25, was sentenced to 200 months while his brother, Mahade Dannon, received a 20-year sentence in October 2021.
The brothers were charged with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, and Moyad Dannon also faced an additional charge of possession of a firearm by an unlawful drug user. The case involved the manufacture of so-called ghost guns, which are homemade firearms without serial numbers that can evade the scrutiny and regulation of law enforcement.
According to authorities, the Dannon brothers, who are U.S. citizens, began communicating with an undercover FBI agent in 2018, expressing their desire to fight for ISIS. Over time, the agent established a close relationship with the brothers and gained insight into their plans to arm ISIS members. The FBI eventually arrested Mahade Dannon after he attempted to purchase a firearm from an undercover agent.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that Moyad Dannon had been manufacturing firearms in the basement of his residence using parts purchased online. These firearms were then modified to be fully automatic, allowing for rapid fire. Court records indicate that Moyad Dannon assembled at least nine ghost guns and intended to supply them to ISIS.
United States Attorney Joseph H. Hogsett emphasized the seriousness of the brothers’ actions, stating, This case serves as a stark reminder of the real threat posed by homegrown extremists who seek to support and aid foreign terrorist organizations. He further highlighted the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies to detect, disrupt, and bring before justice anyone attempting to provide support to terrorist organizations.
The sentencing of both brothers sends a strong message regarding the consequences faced by those involved in terrorist activities. The court’s decision to hand down substantial prison terms underscores the severity with which such crimes are treated in the United States.
News of the Indiana brothers’ involvement in an ISIS ghost gun plot has sparked concerns about the potential misuse of untraceable firearms. The case sheds light on the expanding issue of ghost guns, which have become increasingly popular among criminal networks due to their lack of serial numbers and ease of production.
Despite the outcome of this case, authorities remain vigilant in combating terrorist threats and hold individuals accountable for their actions. The joint efforts of law enforcement agencies serve to protect national security and maintain public safety amidst the ever-evolving landscape of crime and extremism.
The sentencing of the Dannon brothers serves as a strong reminder that law enforcement agencies are actively working to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent violent acts. By disrupting the supply chain of illegal firearms and bringing perpetrators to justice, authorities aim to safeguard communities and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
