Rochester Bar Owner Says Suspect In Would-Be Terror Plot A Panhandler
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A Rochester bar owner who says his restaurant was the one identified by authorities as the target of a would-be terrorist says the man arrested in the plot is "an aggressive panhandler'' with mental health issues.
The Democrat and Chronicle of Rochester reports that Merchants Grill co-owner John Page described Emanuel Lutchman as a panhandler who "caused more trouble than positive.''
Federal authorities said Lutchman sought to prove he was worthy of joining the Islamic State group by carrying out a New Year's Eve attack at a bar using a machete and knives provided by an FBI informant.
Lutchman's lawyer, Steven Slawinski, declined to comment on the charges.
Authorities did not identify the bar, but Page said his restaurant was the supposed target.
Lutchman was arrested Wednesday. He faces 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
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