A student terrorist who wrote a ‘how-to’ guide to bomb-making for ‘misfits and social nobodies’ has been jailed for 13 years
Jacob Graham, 20, who considered the American terrorist US terrorist Theodore ‘the Unabomber’ Kaczynski his ‘idol’, plotted to kill politicians and start a ‘revolution’.
Fuelled by a hatred for the government and ‘ecological concerns’, Graham described himself as the ‘first UK home-grown terrorist’.
The Hugh Baird College student recorded dozens of video messages under the name ‘Desto the Destroyer’ and compiled an ‘online arsenal’ on his computer of information on firearms and explosives.
His ‘Freedom Encyclopedia’ included information on making pipe, nail and car bombs and a submachine gun all with everyday items which he sent to online contacts.
And he plotted this ‘rampage’ all from his bedroom at his mum’s house in Norris Green, Liverpool, between May 2022 and May 2023, a jury heard.
He was cleared of planning an attack but convicted of possessing and sharing terrorist material last month following a five-week trial at Manchester Crown Court.
Manchester Crown Court had earlier heard how Graham carried out chemical experiments in a woodland near his house six weeks before his arrest.
Searching the computer science student’s home, police found a stash of chemicals and a 3D printer which could be used to print parts of firearms for assembly at home.
Justice Goose said Graham appeared nothing more than an ‘ordinary young man, with an interest in fireworks, military and outdoor pursuits’.
But he added: ‘In reality, you are a dangerous young man, you described yourself as the first UK home-grown terrorist.
‘You searched the internet for information and files that explained how to make explosives, weapons and ammunition.
‘You offered yourself as a very knowledgeable and experienced terrorist. I am satisfied, you are a dangerous offender.
‘There is significant risk to members of the public of serious harm by you committing serious, specified terrorist offences.’
The defendant was jailed for 13 years with a five-year extended licence and must also keep police in the know of his whereabouts for the next 30 years.
Graham showed no emotion but, as he walked from the dock to the cells, she flashed his mother a smile in the public gallery.
She burst into tears.
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