Sinmyah Ceasar, a 29-year-old woman from Brooklyn, New York, finds herself facing a potential prison sentence of up to 70 years for her involvement with the terrorist organization ISIS. Initially sentenced to a mere four years in 2019 by Judge Jack Weinstein, who believed rehabilitation was possible, Ceasar’s lenient sentence was overturned in 2021 by the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals, deeming it “shockingly low.” This dramatic turn of events stems from Ceasar’s persistent engagement with terrorist activities, even while under supervised release following her initial prison term. Her actions, including soliciting funds for ISIS supporters, communicating with known terrorist contacts, and attempting to flee to Russia to avoid re-imprisonment, have painted a stark picture of unrepentant support for terrorism, leading prosecutors to push for a drastically increased sentence.
The initial four-year sentence handed down by Judge Weinstein was based on the belief that Ceasar, who had pleaded guilty to providing material support to ISIS and obstruction of justice, could be reformed through educational and mental health support. Weinstein’s decision considered her troubled past, which included childhood trauma. However, the appeals court’s overturning of this sentence highlighted the severity of Ceasar’s crimes and the danger she posed to society. The appeals court’s decision set the stage for a re-sentencing, during which prosecutors have advocated for a significantly longer prison term, reflecting the gravity of her continued involvement with terrorism.
Ceasar’s post-release activities demonstrate a clear pattern of disregard for the law and a continued commitment to supporting ISIS. Just weeks after her release in 2020, she contacted a known Taliban supporter, violating the terms of her supervised release. Furthermore, she engaged in online activities supporting ISIS, including liking a post by a user with an ISIS flag as their profile picture. Her attempts to solicit money for an ISIS supporter further solidified her ongoing affiliation with the terrorist organization. These actions not only violated her release terms but also demonstrated a persistent dedication to the cause, undermining Judge Weinstein’s initial assessment of her potential for rehabilitation.
The most striking example of Ceasar’s defiance came in August 2021, following the appeals court’s decision to overturn her initial sentence. She removed her ankle monitor and attempted to flee to Russia to avoid returning to prison. This desperate attempt to evade justice underscores her unwillingness to accept responsibility for her actions and her ongoing commitment to supporting terrorism. Her eventual apprehension at an auto body shop in New Mexico brought an end to her brief period of freedom and cemented the prosecution’s argument for a much harsher sentence.
Ceasar’s history reveals a complex individual with a troubled past. Reports suggest she suffered childhood trauma and was involved in a planned marriage with Fareed Mumuni, an ISIS sympathizer serving a 25-year sentence for plotting to attack an FBI agent. While these factors may have contributed to her initial path towards extremism, her continued engagement with terrorist activities after her release demonstrates a conscious choice to remain involved with ISIS, regardless of the consequences. This conscious choice is a key factor in the prosecution’s argument for a substantial increase in her sentence.
As Ceasar awaits her re-sentencing, the prosecution and defense continue to prepare their arguments. While her attorney, Deirdre von Dornum, seeks to address concerns regarding the supervised release violations, prosecutors are pushing for a sentence between 30 and 70 years, reflecting the severity of her crimes and her persistent engagement with terrorism. The final decision will ultimately determine the fate of a woman who, despite a chance at rehabilitation, chose to continue down a path of supporting a dangerous and violent ideology. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing justice, rehabilitation, and the need to protect society from individuals who pose a clear and present danger.
