On June 12, 2016, both the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the massacre at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida on June 11. Shortly thereafter, the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) endorsed this IS-supported act of domestic terrorism. Under 18 U.S.C. 2339B, any person who gives "material support" to a "designated foreign terrorist organization", of which IS is one, knowing that group is engaged in "terrorism," may be imprisoned up to 20 years, or if the death of a person results, up to life in prison. Probable cause exists that Westboro did provide "material support"; for IS by endorsing its actions, and giving IS "aid and comfort." The President should direct the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the WBC, and prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.



