Feds: Army deserter who supported ISIS faces gun charges

SEATTLE (AP) — Federal prosecutors say a Washington state Army deserter who made statements supporting Islamic State fighters has been charged with illegally possessing firearms, including a machine gun.

They say Daniel Seth Franey was barred from having guns because he was subject to a protection order taken out by his former partner, but he nevertheless had several weapons.

According to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Tacoma, several residents complained to police that the 33-year-old from Montesano was talking about supporting the Islamic State and advocating the killing of U.S. troops overseas.

Authorities say Franey was recorded on audio attempting to get firearms, particularly AK-47s. He also discussed what he thought were good targets for an attack. They say he repeatedly referred to his support of ISIL.

“This defendant possessed firearms, including machine guns, even though he knew he was prohibited from doing so.  He also discussed attacking members of the military and law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes.  “I commend the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force for their diligent efforts to pursue all available leads to ensure the public was protected from any possible harm.”

Franey was due to appear in federal court Monday afternoon.