Chicago Man Sentenced to 25 Years for ISIS Propaganda Network

Authorities say the defendant hacked Twitter accounts to spread terror content online.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:20am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a hacked Twitter app icon, the metallic surface reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the threat of online terrorist propaganda.A harsh, gritty image of a hacked social media icon highlights the dangers of online radicalization and the need for vigilance against cyber threats.Chicago Today

A 32-year-old Chicago man was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for running an ISIS propaganda network and hacking Twitter accounts to spread terrorist content. Prosecutors said the defendant used sophisticated cyberattacks to take over social media profiles and post extremist material, posing a serious threat to public safety.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of combating online radicalization and the spread of terrorist propaganda, especially through the exploitation of popular social media platforms. It also underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and close coordination between law enforcement and tech companies to identify and disrupt these types of illicit networks.

The details

According to court documents, the defendant used advanced hacking techniques to gain unauthorized access to numerous Twitter accounts, which he then leveraged to post ISIS recruitment materials, execution videos, and other extremist content. Prosecutors said the defendant's actions were part of a broader effort to radicalize individuals and encourage them to support or join the terrorist organization.

  • The defendant was arrested in a joint FBI-Homeland Security operation in April 2025.
  • He was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison on April 18, 2026.

The players

Chicago Man

A 32-year-old Chicago resident who was convicted of running an ISIS propaganda network and hacking Twitter accounts to spread terrorist content online.

FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which collaborated with Homeland Security to apprehend the defendant in 2025.

Homeland Security

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which worked with the FBI to arrest the defendant for his involvement in the ISIS propaganda network.

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What they’re saying

“This sentence sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who seek to use the internet to spread terror and radicalize individuals.”

— U.S. Attorney John Lausch, Northern District of Illinois

What’s next

The defendant has the right to appeal the sentence, but prosecutors have expressed confidence that the conviction and punishment will be upheld.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing threat of online radicalization and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and law enforcement cooperation to identify and disrupt terrorist propaganda networks operating on social media platforms.