Judge withdraws from case of Ohio man who plotted US attacks

Judge James Graham filed the notice of recusal in federal court Wednesday without explanation in the case of defendant Abdirahman Sheik Mohamud (ab-dee-RAH’-mahn shayk moh-HAH’-mud). (Photo By unidentified photographer – 2004 Sixth Circuit Judicial Conference 14. United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Retrieved on 2012-10-09., Public Domain)

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A federal judge has excused himself from the case of an Ohio man who admitted he plotted to kill military members in the U.S.

Judge James Graham filed the notice of recusal in federal court Wednesday without explanation in the case of defendant Abdirahman Sheik Mohamud (ab-dee-RAH’-mahn shayk moh-HAH’-mud).

Mohamud pleaded guilty in August 2015 to supporting terrorism and making false statements to authorities. He was set for sentencing Friday. A new date will be set by Judge Michael Watson.

Mohamud’s attorney Sam Shamansky said Mohamud had confidence in Graham and has the same confidence in Watson to render a just sentence.

Prosecutors are seeking 23 years, saying Mohamud tried to cover up dangerous terrorist activity.

Mohamud is asking for leniency, saying he abandoned his attack plans.