Judge orders 3 of the ‘Newburgh Four’ freed in New York synagogue bomb plot

Three men convicted more than a decade ago of plotting to blow up New York City synagogues, a Jewish community center and shoot down military planes, were ordered to be released from prison by a judge on Thursday who said they had been manipultaed by the FBI.

In a scathing opinion against the FBI, the presiding judge called the men “hapless” petty criminals who were “easily manipulated” by the government in a sting operation.

The men to be released are: Onta Williams, David Williams and Laguerra Payen, who were three of what became known as the “Newburgh Four.”

A fourth man, described as the ringleader by the government, James Cromitie, did not seek compassionate release and is expected to serve until 2030.

Lawyers for the men could not immediately be identified by Reuters to seek comment.

Read more: Reuters