HOUSTON — An individual from Texas facing charges for attempting to support the Islamic State group and plotting violent acts in Houston made his first appearance in federal court on Thursday. Anas Said is alleged to have offered his residence as a refuge for ISIS members and expressed a desire to engage in an attack reminiscent of 9/11, as indicated by court documentation.

Federal prosecutors contend that Said devised plans and held discussions regarding committing attacks in his hometown of Houston. In addition, he reportedly utilized the internet to explore methods for creating explosives and employing cellphones as means for remote detonation.

Documents from the court reveal that “He has produced videos praising the ‘virtue’ of ISIS, highlighting the violence and fatalities resulting from ISIS activities, and stressing the necessity for the continuation of the terror carried out by ISIS.” It is further claimed that he is committed to aiding ISIS in any capacity possible.

At 28 years old, Said was arrested last week, and during his court appearance, he pleaded not guilty to a charge of attempting to furnish material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Authorities noted that Said was born in Houston but spent part of his youth in Lebanon and will remain in federal detention.

Douglas Williams Jr., the special agent overseeing the FBI’s Houston office, stated that Said has been monitored by the agency since 2017. U.S. Attorney Alamdar Hamdani warned those who aspire to become terrorists, asserting, “For those who believe they can conceal their activities behind encrypted applications or anonymous social media accounts, be aware that we will track you down and ensure that justice is served.”

Baldemar Zuniga, who represents Said, commented that the claims made against his client pertain mainly to the provision of support to ISIS solely via videos and propaganda. He pointed out, “Although there are allegations that my client made statements to government agents regarding potential terrorist activities, the current indictment does not claim any concrete plans or actions of terrorism. This appears to be an extensive inquiry that will require time to carefully examine all the evidence.”

If found guilty, Said could face a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison.