TRIAL AGAINST TEEN WHO ‘PLOTTED FESTIVAL TERROR ATTACK’ TO BEGIN TODAY

The trial against an Isle of Wight teenager accused of planning an Islamic State-inspired terror attack is to get underway in London today (Monday). The local teen – who is currently legally protected from being identified – was rumbled thanks to international efforts by the FBI, who tipped off Counter Terrorism officers here in the UK. The-then 15-year-old boy was arrested on 11th July 2022 and held for several days before being charged with preparation of terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court, then the Old Bailey, before entering not guilty pleas to 5 charges back in November. It was on 4th November that he was charged with 3 counts of dissemination of a terrorist publications under Section 2 of the Terrorism Act 2006, and having an article with a blade or point in a public place, contrary to Section 139 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988. The terror trial was due to begin at Winchester Crown Court in June last year but was adjourned at the last minute. Now, the trial – which is expected to last 3 weeks – is getting underway at Kingston Crown Court, London.