Joshua Van Haften of Wisconsin charged with trying to join Islamic State group

A man from Madison, Wisconsin, has been charged with attempting to provide material support and resources to the Islamic State group.

Joshua Van Haften, 34, of Madison, was arrested at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport Wednesday night upon returning from Turkey. The Department of Justice said that he left the U.S. on Aug. 26 and traveled to Istanbul.

“Van Haften traveled overseas for the alleged purpose of joining and attempting to provide material support to [the Islamic State],” Assistant Attorney General Carlin said in a statement. “Stemming the flow of foreign fighters to Iraq and Syria and holding accountable those who attempt to provide material support to designated foreign terrorist organizations remains a top priority for the National Security Division.”

Mr. Van Haften complained on Facebook that said he was unable to cross the border from Turkey into Syria, according to the criminal complaint, The Associated Press reported.

“We hope this arrest will serve as a deterrent for others who may be terrorist sympathizers here in Wisconsin, across the nation or abroad,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert J. Shields Jr. of the FBI’s Milwaukee Division. “They will be held accountable for support of terrorism against our citizens and our international partners.”