Top charge gone from NYC terror plot case

NEW YORK (AP) — The top charge has been dropped against two men accused of plotting to blow up synagogues in New York City.

Ahmed Ferhani and Mohamed Mamdouh pleaded not guilty today to charges including criminal possession of a weapon as a terror crime.

But a grand jury evidently rejected the initial top charge against them, conspiracy as a terror crime. It carried the potential for life in prison.

The top charge now carries up to 32 years if they’re convicted.

Mamdouh’s lawyer calls the charges “significantly” reduced.

Ferhani’s lawyer calls the case “bogus.” She says authorities knew he’d repeatedly been institutionalized for psychiatric problems.

The Manhattan district attorney says the men’s intentions amounted to an act of terrorism.