Target In 'Jihad Jane' Case Set To Visit Philly
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Prosecutors say he was the target of a death plot by alleged home grown terror suspect "Jihad Jane."
But now, Swedish artist Lars Vilks plans to speak with reporters in the Philadelphia area Thursday, his first of four appearances in American and Canadian cities over the next two weeks.
Suspect Colleen LaRose, whose screen name was "Jihad Jane," and her alleged accomplice Jamie Paulin-Ramirez, now dubbed "Jihad Jamie," both are awaiting trial in federal court. Both were indicted by a grand jury, charged with travelling to Europe as part of a plot to kill Vilks.
The Swedish artist has received numerous death threats because of a 2007 drawing depicting Muhammad's head on a dog.
Vilks visit to Philadelphia is sponsored by the David Horowitz Freedom Center and comes on the 5th anniversary of the publication of cartoons by a Danish newspaper that led to controversy and violence.
Vilks' visit here will not be open to the public, only reporters and selected guests.
Vilks may be making a second visit to Philadelphia in the future, appearing in federal court to testify as a witness against the two suspects who allegedly plotted to kill him.
Reported By: Walt Hunter, CBS 3
