Charlotte, North Carolina — An 18-year-old man has been taken into custody after allegedly plotting a violent attack to coincide with New Year’s Eve celebrations, aiming to harm civilians in support of the extremist group ISIS. Christian Sturdivant is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, according to statements from federal law enforcement authorities.
Sturdivant’s arrest follows an investigation that began in December 2025 when local FBI agents received information suggesting he had been making social media posts in favor of ISIS. On December 12, he communicated online with an individual he believed to be an ISIS member, expressing intentions to carry out a jihadist attack. Authorities later discovered Sturdivant’s planning documents, which detailed specific actions, including an attack on a grocery store.
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson emphasized the importance of this intervention. “This alleged plot could have led to tragic consequences,” he stated, praising the collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies. Attorney General Pamela Bondi echoed this sentiment, asserting the Department of Justice’s commitment to combating terrorist threats both locally and nationally.
FBI Director Kash Patel noted the proactive measures that led to Sturdivant’s arrest, underlining the value of sharing intelligence across agencies. “We will hold accountable anyone plotting violence against our communities,” he affirmed. Sturdivant’s case has been characterized as a serious threat that was thwarted through swift coordination between various law enforcement organizations.
The investigation revealed that Sturdivant had been preparing for an attack, acquiring items such as knives and hammers. Among the materials collected by law enforcement was a disturbing handwritten note titled “New Years Attack 2026,” detailing his intentions and target plans, which included a disturbing goal of inflicting mass casualties.
Officials have reiterated the need for vigilance and collaboration in addressing potential threats. Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg lamented that individuals like Sturdivant pursue extremist motives, yet praised the response from law enforcement that prevented a possible tragedy. “Americans deserve safety while celebrating,” Ferguson reiterated, reflecting the sentiments shared by community leaders.
As the investigation proceeds, Sturdivant remains in federal custody, facing maximal prison terms of up to 20 years if convicted. His case underscores the ongoing challenges of counterterrorism efforts within the United States, and lawmakers continue to urge communities to remain alert in the face of such threats.
Law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation include the FBI’s Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, local police departments, and various federal investigative services. Their combined efforts illustrate an ongoing commitment to safeguarding public safety against extremist violence.
The allegations against Sturdivant are serious, and the legal proceedings will now unfold, with prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason. The charges remain allegations at this stage, with Sturdivant presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.