DZHOKHAR TSARNAEV CHARGED in Boston Marathon Bombing

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev has just been hit with federal criminal charges for
the Boston Marathon bombing ... and if convicted, he could face the
death penalty.

Attorney General Eric Holder announced moments ago ... the 19-year-old
has been charged with the following counts:

-- One count of using and conspiring to use a weapon of mass
destruction (namely, an improvised explosive device or IED) against
persons and property within the United States resulting in death.

-- One count of malicious destruction of property by means of an
explosive device resulting in death.

According to officials, Tsarnaev could face up to life in prison or
the death penalty if convicted.

Officials say Tsarnaev had his initial court appearance today from his
hospital room ... where he is being treated for wounds sustained
during a shoot out with police in Watertown, Mass.