Homeland Security


Adam Gadahn

Al-Qaeda Spokesman

Adam GadahnAdam GadahnAdam Gadahn

Details
ImportanceMedium
LocationPakistan4
AffiliationAl-Qaeda
RoleSpokesman
Full Given NameAdam Yahiye Gadahn
NationalityAmerican2
Alias(es)Azzam al-Amriki1,2, Azzam the American2, Abu Suhayb Al-Amriki2, Abu Suhail Al-Amriki2, Yihya Majadin Adams2, Adam Pearlman2
Date of BirthSept. 1, 19782
Place of BirthUnited States
Height5-112
Weight210 lbs2
GenderMale
DescriptionBrown hair, hazel eyes, light complexion, medium build.2
Injuries/IllnessScars on his chest and right forearm.2
Charged withTreason, providing material support to al-Qaeda; aiding and abetting1
Charging authorityUnited States
 
 
Narrative and Notes
 
Reliable
  • Adam Yahiye Gadahn, born Adam Pearlman, grew up in rural Southern California and had frequent contact with Muslims. He converted to Islam in the mid-1990s and moved to Pakistan to study a few years later. He was apparently radicalized there.
  • Between October 2004 and September 2006, Gadahn appeared in five videotapes in support of al-Qaeda.
  • U.S. officials labeled him as a propagandist for the organization. He is not charged with taking part in any terrorist operation.
  • The Rewards For Justice Program of the U.S. State Department, is offering a reward of up to $1 million for information leading to the arrest of Gadahn.
  • He speaks English and Arabic.
  • He is the first American to be charged with treason since the World War II era.2,3,4
    •  
     
    Sources
    1 Indictment, United States vs. Adam Gadahn, released Oct. 11, 2006.
    2 FBI Most-Wanted Fugitive on-line poster, noted Oct. 11, 2006.
    3 Press release, U.S. Department of Justice, Oct. 11, 2006.
    4 Lichtblau, Eric. 'American in Qaeda Tapes Accused of Treason.' The New York Times, Oct. 11, 2006.
    Photos (left to right): FBI; FBI; FBI
     
     
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