Midlands supporter of right-wing extremism ‘was making submachine gun’
Ben Styles, of Leamington Spa, was reportedly fascinated by the perpetrator of the New Zealand mosque attack
A supporter of extreme right-wing ideology will be sentenced this month after admitting making weapons and collecting terrorism material, police say. Ben Styles, of Plymouth Place in Leamington Spa, was arrested in April 2021 by detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing.
A jury at Birmingham Crown Court heard recently that the 25-year-old had acquired various tools, including a lathe and a drill press, and was reportedly making a gun at the time detectives arrested and searched his home. He was acquitted of engaging in conduct in preparation for a terrorist act at court earlier today (June 15).
Prosecutor Matthew Brooks detailed how Styles had travelled to New Zealand shortly before the mosque attack in Christchurch in 2019 but he became fascinated by the attacker, allegedly collecting his manifesto and a video of the massacre according to West Midlands Police. The force added that at an earlier legal hearing in November 2021, Styles admitted three counts of collecting information contrary to section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2006 (right wing material and instructional firearms documents).
He also admitted one count of possessing a prohibited weapon. Detective Superintendent Anastasia Miller, from CTP West Midlands CTU, said: “Styles’ was making a submachine gun and ammunition, he also knowingly downloaded and possessed extremely distressing and disturbing imagery.
“We will continue to protect local communities by working with partners and the CPS to pursue and prosecute all those who show support for terrorism. We work tirelessly to counter terrorism.
“Our absolute priority is to ensure the safety and security of the people who live, work and visit the West Midlands area.”
Assistant Chief Constable David Gardner, counter terrorism lead for Warwickshire Police, said: “The evidence in this case was extremely concerning and clearly demonstrated Styles has an obsession with far right wing ideologies. It is vital we all remain vigilant and people report any concerns they have to police.”
Styles will be sentenced on Friday, June 23.
Far-Right Criminals 