Alexanda Kotey, member of “ISIS Beatles”, pleads guilty

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia — Three years after being arrested by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and handed over to the U.S., one member of the so-called “ISIS Beatles”, four Britons who joined the Islamic State and were often used in propaganda videos, Alexanda Kotey pleaded guilty to federal charges of hostage-taking resulting in death, conspiracy to commit murder against US citizens abroad, and conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists.

During his trial, Kotey confessed to involvement in the murders of U.S. journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff and aid workers Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig.

U.S. authorities informed British officials that they will not seek a death sentence for Kotey. The judge presiding over the trial explained that under a preliminary arrangement between U.S. and British authorities, Kotey could be transferred to Britain after serving 15 years of jailtime where he could face more charges that might extend his prison term.

Kotey’s indictment includes a long list of torture techniques that he is accused of using against western hostages.