Sayfullo Saipov, responsible for the deadliest terrorist attack in New York City since 9/11, has been sentenced to life in prison.
The Uzbekistani Islamic terrorist drove a 6,000-pound truck onto a bike path in lower Manhattan in 2017, killing eight people and injuring several others.
A jury has convicted Saipov on all 28 counts brought against him, including murder, assault, attempted murder, providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death, and damage and destruction to a motor vehicle resulting in death.
According to the Department of Justice, Saipov committed many crimes to gain entry into the Islamic State terrorist organization (ISIS) and carried out the deadly attack on their behalf. After the attack, ISIS commended his actions, and his commitment to the terror group has not waned.
In March, the jury could not come to a unanimous decision regarding an appropriate sentence, with some suggesting he should be spared the death penalty. As a result, life in prison was mandated.
"Today's sentence means that Sayfullo Saipov will spend the rest of his life in federal prison for brutally murdering eight innocent victims during his carefully calculated ISIS terrorist attack," said Attorney General Merrick Garland.
"More than just holding Saipov accountable for his depraved crimes," added U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, "the proceedings today gave further voice to the victims. More than 20 victims and family members addressed the Court and confronted Saipov. They bravely and boldly shared their pain and devastation."
The sentencing of Saipov brings some closure to the victims and their families, who have been struggling to cope with the aftermath of the attack. The attack was a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism and the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to prevent such attacks from happening in the future.
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