Masih Alinejad Shooter Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison
- Carlise Rivera,the man convicted of conspiring to murder Iranian human rights activist and journalist Masih Alinejad,received a 15-year prison sentence on January 26,2026.Rivera pleaded guilty in August 2025...
- The Justice Department revealed that Rivera, a New Jersey resident, was hired to carry out the assassination of Masih Alinejad in Brooklyn, New York, in February 2022.
- Rivera initially pleaded not guilty, but later changed his plea to guilty on August 23, 2025. NBC New York reported on the guilty plea.
Masih Alinejad’s Alleged Assailant Sentenced to 15 Years
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Carlise Rivera,the man convicted of conspiring to murder Iranian human rights activist and journalist Masih Alinejad,received a 15-year prison sentence on January 26,2026.Rivera pleaded guilty in August 2025 to charges of conspiracy to commit murder for hire and conspiracy to commit stalking with intent to kill or harass. This marks the third time Alinejad has confronted Rivera in court.
The Plot to Harm Masih Alinejad
The Justice Department revealed that Rivera, a New Jersey resident, was hired to carry out the assassination of Masih Alinejad in Brooklyn, New York, in February 2022. The Department of Justice press release details the examination and charges. Rivera was allegedly paid by individuals associated with the Iranian government. He conducted surveillance on Alinejad’s home and planned to inflict serious harm.
Carlise Rivera’s Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Rivera initially pleaded not guilty, but later changed his plea to guilty on August 23, 2025. NBC New York reported on the guilty plea. Judge Lewis Liman of the Southern District of New York handed down the 15-year sentence on January 26, 2026, during a hearing were Alinejad and her husband were present. The sentencing reflects the severity of the planned attack and the ongoing threat to Alinejad’s safety.
Several entities are connected to this case. Masih Alinejad is the primary target and a prominent voice against the Iranian government. Her website provides facts about her activism. The U.S.Department of Justice led the investigation and prosecution. The DOJ website offers details on their work. The Iranian government is suspected of orchestrating the plot, though direct evidence linking high-ranking officials remains under investigation. federal authorities continue to investigate the individuals who allegedly hired Rivera, seeking to uncover the full extent of the Iranian government’s involvement.
According to The New York Times, the investigation is ongoing, and further indictments are possible.