Man Accused In Synagogue Bomb Plot Denied Bail

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MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) — A Hollywood man accused of plotting to set off an explosive at a South Florida Jewish center went before a federal judge on Tuesday.

James Medina's attorney sought his client's release on bail.

Federal prosecutors opposed it calling him a flight risk and danger to the community. The state pointed out that Medina's own mother had taken out a restraining order against him.

The judge agreed that he was a danger, and a flight risk, and denied bail.

Medina's attorney countered that his client has suffered from mental illness for years and needs help - not prison.

Medina, 40, faces life in prison if convicted of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction. The FBI says Medina plotted with an undercover informant to obtain an explosive device to use at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center during recent Passover observances.

Medina was arrested after the informant gave him a fake bomb.

FBI recordings show Medina allegedly supported the Islamic State group and claimed an obligation to attack Jews in the U.S.

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