Police have issued a warning around extreme online content after a teenager from Northumberland was convicted of multiple terrorism offences.

A 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been found guilty of membership of a proscribed organisation and possession and distribution of terrorist publications. He was convicted by a jury after a four-week trial at Leeds Crown Court.

The boy, who was 15 at the time of the offences, was arrested as part of an intelligence led operation by Counter Terrorism Policing North East, supported by Northumbria Police, in February 2025.

Evidence was recovered which revealed a deep-seated extreme right wing mindset. Items, such as body armour, masks, flags and components for explosives were seized including knives, a crossbow and air soft rifles.

Officers downloaded 4.8TB of messages and computer files from his phones and computer. It was discovered that the boy was part of 25 extreme right wing online chat groups on platforms such as Telegram, Snapchat, TikTok and Wire.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: “This case provides a stark reminder around the dangers of extreme content online that is accessible to the public and how individuals can be drawn into serious offending.

“Possession of terrorist publications and sharing them with others is a serious offence and the impact of this is not restricted to online activity. All too often we see the real-world implications of individuals who have been influenced by such material or even motivated to plan or take part in terrorist activity, which is what we discovered here.

“Unfortunately, we know that nationally more and more young people are being exposed to harmful content online.

“Internet Matters provides practical advice to parents on how to help their children navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. Every year thousands of reports from the public help police tackle the terrorist threat.

“If you see or hear anything that doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and report it in confidence at gov.uk/ACT. You won’t be wasting our time. In an emergency, always call 999.”

Chief Superintendent Kevin Waring, area commander for Northumberland, said: “We recognise the concern these type of cases can create, especially when they centre on an individual who has lived within our area.

“We have worked closely with our partners throughout this case, including Counter Terrorism Policing, and thank them for their efforts and support.

“We want to reassure our communities that we are here for you and we are committed to working together to keep you safe.

“If anyone does have concerns in relation to this case, then please do speak to us.
“We would always encourage people to remain vigilant and if you do become worried about someone you know, see or hear something concerning then please come forward.

“You can share information at gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, call 999.”