Davud Ansariy, an Uzbekistan-born naturalized U.S. citizen, was brought back to New York City this week to face federal terrorism charges related to his alleged leadership of a group planning attacks in the city. Ansariy, 41, is accused of heading a crew known as the “tea party” between 2014 and 2016 that reportedly contemplated acts of violence including assassinating then-President Barack Obama, bombing Coney Island, and targeting law enforcement officers.

According to federal prosecutors, Ansariy was involved in raising funds for aspiring members of ISIS and the Al-Nusrah Front during the period in question. He left the United States in May 2016 on a one-way flight to Turkey and was later apprehended in Georgia on Wednesday before being flown back to John F. Kennedy International Airport. He was met by FBI and NYPD agents upon his arrival.

Ansariy appeared in Brooklyn federal court Thursday afternoon, where he was ordered held without bail. He faces charges including conspiracy and attempting to provide material support to terrorist organizations, with a maximum sentence of 35 years if convicted. During his court appearance, Ansariy pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

James C. Barnacle Jr., assistant director in charge of the FBI’s New York field office, stated in a video message that the agency remains committed to pursuing those who support terrorist activities even if they attempt to evade justice by fleeing the country.

Ansariy’s court-appointed attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to gather evidence relating to the activities of Ansariy and the alleged group he led.