Oxford Couple Convicted Over Terrorism Funding After Sending Cash to Son in Syria
A pair from Oxford were today found guilty of funding terrorism after sending money to their son, who had travelled to Syria. John Letts and Sally Lane were convicted at London’s Central Criminal Court following a three-week trial.
Parents Broke Terror Laws Despite Warnings
The couple was convicted of one count under Section 17 of the Terrorism Act 2000 for sending money they suspected could be used for terrorism. They were found not guilty on a second count, while the jury failed to reach a verdict on a third.
Counter Terrorism Police warned them repeatedly not to send money. Yet on 2 September 2015, Sally Lane sent £223 to their son Jack Letts after an online chat. Detectives later interviewed her, but she denied knowing the money could fuel terrorism.
Official: They’re Not Terrorists, But Broke the Law
“John Letts and Sally Lane are not terrorists and there is no suggestion that they supported the ideology or actions of Daesh in any way,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, head of Counter Terrorism Policing South East.
“However, they knowingly sent money despite suspecting it might support terrorist activities or fall into such hands. The law is clear and applies regardless of motive.”
Parents Cited Duty to Son, Courts Impose Suspended Sentences
During the trial, Letts and Lane claimed they were simply fulfilling parental duties and hoped the funds might help Jack get out of Syria.
Despite being warned in March 2015 by counter-terrorism officers not to send any property or money, they ignored the advice.
They were arrested in January 2016 and charged with offences under the Terrorism Act.
Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC sentenced both to 15 months behind bars, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, they were ordered to pay £140 in costs.
Counter Terrorism Police Vow to Crack Down on Terror Funding
Detective Chief Superintendent Barnes vowed to continue disrupting terrorist finances. “We work day and night to keep the public safe by stopping money reaching terrorists or their supporters. We will prosecute those who ignore the law.”
