A man has today (19/5) has pleaded guilty to preparing acts of terrorism following an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE)
Edward Little of Pelham Street, Brighton pleaded guilty to the charge of preparation of terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006 at the Old Bailey.
The 21-year-old was arrested by officers from CTPSE on Friday 23 September 2022.
He admitted planning an attack linked to Islamist terrorism, at Hyde Park in London, which was ultimately prevented.
Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, Head of CTPSE said:
“This was a fast-moving investigation which our team responded to quickly. This enabled us to stop Little in his tracks, before he could carry out his plans.
“Little’s guilty plea is a reflection of the strength of evidence our team was able to build and is a real example of why the Counter Terrorism Policing network exists.
Little is due to be sentenced at the Central Criminal Court on Friday 21 July.
At a previous hearing at Westminster Magistrates court, on 30 September, he also pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer during an interview and was initially sentenced to 40 weeks imprisonment. This was later reduced to eight months imprisonment on appeal.
DCS Wright continued: “This case is a prime example of the way in which CTPSE and the wider Counter Terrorism Policing network, often with our local policing colleagues and other partners works tirelessly to protect our communities.”
Sussex Police Chief Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw, Divisional Commander for Brighton and Hove, said:
““We understand incidents such as this occurring locally can be concerning, but please be assured that a full investigation has taken place and there is no wider risk to the public.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who supported this investigation and helped to achieve this conviction.”
There is lots of help and support available if you notice that the behaviour of someone you are close to has changed and you are worried they may have become radicalised in their views.
Every year thousands of reports from the public help police tackle the terrorist threat – and we need this to continue. We would always encourage people to report anything suspicious.
If you see or hear something that doesn’t seem right, please trust your instincts and ACT early.
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