Steven Donovan from Baker Street has pleaded guilty to stirring up racial hatred, sharing terrorist material, and possessing a knife. He also admitted to holding racially inflammatory content and extreme pornography.
Hate Stickers Spark Terror Probe
In May 2020, a PCSO on routine patrol spotted numerous racist stickers and graffiti around Greenhead Park. Concerned, the officer alerted authorities, sparking a Counter Terrorism Policing North East investigation.
Right-Wing Extremism Online
Further digging revealed Donovan was posting far-right extremist content online. He was arrested in June 2020 and formally charged a year later in August 2021.
Police Vow to Hunt Hate Criminals
Detective Chief Superintendent Jim Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said:
“Communities in West Yorkshire work tirelessly alongside agencies such as the police to ensure our towns and cities are welcoming and inclusive to people of all backgrounds. “Those that seek to bring hatred to our communities and disrupt cohesion through criminal activities will be tracked down and brought before the courts. “We must stand together by challenging hateful extremist attitudes and trusting our instincts by reporting concerning or suspicious behaviour to the police.”
