A teenage boy from Buckinghamshire has been sentenced to a two year Youth Rehabilitation Order after being convicted of a terrorism offence.
The boy, who is aged 15 and cannot be named for legal reasons, was convicted at Wycombe Youth Court on 24 November and was sentenced at the same court today (20/12).
Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East carried out a search at a property in December last year after the arrest of the boy.
During this investigation, officers found evidence that he had identified an attack target, and that he had made a crude weapon.
They also uncovered evidence that he was motivated by an extreme right wing ideology, specifically anti-Semitism.
Officers seized items including camouflage clothing, fireworks and an improvised firework launcher. They also found evidence that he had been engaging in spreading extreme right-wing views online.
He was charged in May this year with inviting support for a proscribed organisation as well as possessing an explosive substance.
Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, head of Counter Terrorism Policing South East, said: “Unfortunately, this case is an example of the concerning theme we have seen of children and young people, often with their own wider vulnerabilities, being drawn through the internet into extreme ideologies.
“Whilst we in the Counter Terrorism Policing network work really hard with other agencies to divert young people away from extremism, this boy had gone as far as showing a real interest in carrying out an attack.
“Fortunately, due to the efforts of our team, officers were able to intervene before he could progress to carry out any attack.
“The case really demonstrates the importance of making a report to police if you think someone you know is being, or is at risk, of being drawn into terrorism. If you have any concerns, please do trust your instincts and get in touch quickly.
“Your report really could save lives, as well as helping the person you’re concerned about before it becomes too late.
“You can make a report in total confidence by visiting gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, you should always call 999.”
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