An Isle of Wight schoolboy, who delved into Islamic extremism and plotted an attack on the Isle of Wight Festival, has been sentenced to 7 years in prison today. The teenager, whose identity remains protected due to legal reasons, was found guilty of engaging in conduct in the preparation of terrorist acts, dissemination of terrorist publications, and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
The 15-year-old, diagnosed with autism, was arrested in July 2022 after alarming communications were discovered by Counter Terrorism Policing South East on various social media platforms. The communications revealed his intention to carry out a knife attack at a local school and his research into potential attacks at the Isle of Wight Festival.
The court heard that the teenager, who had converted to Islam in 2021, had adopted extremist views, including support for Islamic State propaganda and expressing hatred towards non-believers. He had shared videos of beheadings and executions and showed support for past terrorist attacks.
Despite concerns about his behavior and beliefs, he was not referred to the Home Office’s Prevent program. His radicalization was attributed to exposure to Daesh propaganda.
At the sentencing hearing, Justice Maura McGowan emphasized that the teenager understood the difference between right and wrong and had been warned about his views but continued to explore extremism. He was sentenced to 7 years in prison, with an additional 1 year to be served on license. He was also ordered to comply with a 10-year terrorist notification requirement and pay a £41 surcharge fee.
Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, Head of CTPSE, highlighted the importance of early intervention to prevent extremism, urging individuals to report any concerns to relevant authorities.
Superintendent Rob Mitchelle of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary echoed the importance of community vigilance in identifying and preventing radicalization.
Although an application to lift reporting restrictions was refused, UKNIP plans to name the convicted terrorist once restrictions expire on his 18th birthday.
