A federal judge in New York has sentenced a Brooklyn man to 15 years in prison for his involvement in a failed conspiracy linked to Iranian agents aimed at assassinating prominent Iranian-American activist Masih Alinejad, U.S. prosecutors announced. The sentence underscores Washington’s commitment to countering foreign-sponsored plots on American soil.
Judge Hands Down Maximum Penalty in Murder-for-Hire Scheme
Carlisle Rivera, 50, also known by the nickname “Pop,” received the prison term Wednesday after earlier pleading guilty to conspiracy charges, including murder-for-hire and stalking in connection with the plot. The sentencing was delivered by U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in Manhattan, marking one of the most significant legal actions against alleged Iran-backed transnational repression efforts in recent years.
Prosecutors described the scheme as part of a broader pattern of Iranian intelligence services targeting critics abroad. Rivera’s conviction centers on his participation in efforts directed toward Alinejad, a vocal critic of Iran’s compulsory hijab laws and human rights record who lives in the United States.
Targeted Activist and Broader Context of Foreign-Linked Threats
Masih Alinejad, an Iranian-American journalist and author, has led high-profile campaigns against Tehran’s human rights abuses and compulsory dress codes for women. The plot against her was attributed by U.S. authorities to figures linked with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps and its intelligence apparatus, which they say orchestrated multiple attempts to harm her because of her activism.
The judge’s ruling follows a 2024 arrest and months of legal proceedings, as well as similar prosecutions targeting individuals allegedly involved in transnational intimidation and violence. U.S. officials characterize these efforts as “transnational repression,” where authoritarian states target dissidents abroad to silence dissent and intimidate opposition voices.
Justice Department Vows Continued Action Against Transnational Plots
In statements after the sentencing, Justice Department officials reaffirmed the danger of foreign-backed covert operations against critics of authoritarian regimes, especially those residing in the United States. Law enforcement authorities have pledged to pursue further charges against others implicated in the broader network of conspirators.
The case highlights continuing concerns about the safety of activists living outside their home countries and the reach of international influence operations. Alinejad, who emigrated to the U.S. and became a citizen, has continued her advocacy while urging stronger protective and legal measures to safeguard dissidents globally.
