Counter-terror police thanked the public for flagging the social media activity of a 16-year-old teen in Leeds who was later found guilty of far-right related terrorism offences.
A press release details how Counter Terrorism Policing North East investigated and subsequently arrested the teen in May 2021, re-arresting them two months later.
He entered guilty pleas at Westminster Youth Court on February 17, 2022.
The teen, whose identity remains anonymous due to their age, entered guilty pleas for offences related to the dissemination of a terrorist publication and for possession of terrorist material.
On Monday, March 14, it emerged that the young terrorist received a twelve-month referral order for each offence – which will run concurrently.
They will also have to front the costs and face a criminal behavioural order that will run until the day before they turn eighteen.
The counter-terror police press release makes clear that “Referral Orders can include reparation or restitution, as well as undertaking a programme of interventions and activities to address their offending behaviour.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Martin Snowden, who leads Counter Terror Policing North East, said: “We are immensely grateful that this was reported to police,” adding that the public should continue to report such content for the police to act.
“Through reports such as these, the work of the CTIRU and the support of online service providers, we can silence those wanting to spread hatred and protect others from the harm that takes place on online platforms,” he concluded.