Birmingham Teen Found Guilty of Distributing Terrorist Materials

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A 19-year-old man from Saltley, Birmingham, has been found guilty of terrorism offences after distributing extremist materials online. Shaan Farooq was convicted at Birmingham Crown Court for three counts of distributing terrorist material with the intent to encourage others to commit acts of terrorism.

Farooq, who had previously pleaded guilty to possession of terrorism-related material, was arrested after a police investigation uncovered disturbing content on his electronic devices. During a search of his home on 11 July 2022, officers seized a phone, laptop, and tablet containing extremist materials linked to the banned organization Islamic State, which Farooq intended to distribute.

The investigation revealed that Farooq shared these materials to spread radical beliefs and incite others to violence. The court heard that his actions were part of a broader intent to encourage terrorism through online content. He is set to be sentenced on 11 December at Birmingham Crown Court.

Farooq’s conviction follows that of a close friend who was also involved in terrorism-related offences and has already been brought to justice.

ACCESS TO THE LAW: Understanding the Offences of Distributing Terrorist Materials and Incitement

As part of our campaign to improve citizens’ access to and understanding of UK criminal law, we are explaining the legislation surrounding cases we cover.

The recent conviction of Shaan Farooq highlights two serious terrorism-related offences under UK law: distributing terrorist materials and incitement.

Distributing Terrorist Materials

Under the Terrorism Act 2006, it is an offence to distribute or share materials that promote terrorism or support extremist ideologies. This includes videos, articles, and other digital content intended to encourage others to engage in terrorist activities. In Farooq’s case, police discovered a range of extremist content on his electronic devices, all linked to the banned organization Islamic State. The purpose of distributing such materials, according to prosecutors, was to encourage and incite violent acts by those influenced by the content.

The typical sentence for distributing terrorist materials ranges from 2 to 7 years in prison, depending on the nature and intent of the distribution. Aggravating factors, such as a widespread dissemination effort or repeated sharing, can lead to harsher penalties. Courts also consider whether the material was shared with specific individuals, particularly those vulnerable to radicalization, which may influence the severity of sentencing.

Incitement to Terrorism

Incitement is another significant offence that often accompanies the distribution of extremist material. The Terrorism Act 2006 and other UK laws prohibit incitement to terrorism, which occurs when a person encourages or urges others to commit acts of violence, often by promoting extremist ideologies. This can include sharing propaganda, making statements that glorify terrorism, or inciting followers to commit violence.

Incitement to terrorism is treated with severe penalties because it directly threatens public safety by motivating others to commit harmful acts. Courts consider factors such as the intent behind the incitement, the influence the individual holds over others, and the reach of their communications. The sentences for incitement can be lengthy, with courts aiming to deter not only those who engage in violent acts but also those who inspire or encourage others to do so.

The Role of the Court

When sentencing in cases of terrorism, the courts aim to balance public protection with a deterrent effect. Offenders who distribute terrorist materials or incite terrorism often receive substantial prison terms, reflecting the severity of these offences. The judiciary’s firm stance sends a clear message that any attempt to spread or promote extremist ideology will face the full weight of the law, helping to protect the public from radicalization and terrorist activity.

In cases like Farooq’s, the sentencing will reflect both his actions in distributing extremist content and his intent to influence others, underscoring the UK’s commitment to combating terrorism at every level.

Well, that’s all for now. But until our next article, please stay tuned, stay informed, but most of all stay safe, and I’ll see you then.

Jason King

Birmingham City-Desk

Twitter (X) @JasonKingNews

Jasonkingnews@gmail.com