Teen who researched how to carry out a terror attack jailed after police uncover disturbing online activity
McKenzie Morgan, who was 17 at the time of the offences, was sentenced to 14 months in a Young Offenders Institution at the Central Criminal Court on Friday. He had earlier pleaded guilty to possessing information likely to be useful to someone committing or preparing an act of terrorism.
Morgan’s actions included researching violent attacks, discussing targeting an Oasis concert, and attempting to purchase knives.
The case, though centred in Gwent, has prompted warnings that the risks posed by online radicalisation and violent content affect young people across Wales, including here in Swansea Bay.
Police said Morgan had taken part in online chats with other teenagers where he talked about wanting to carry out an attack similar to the horrific events in Southport in July 2024. Officers later found he had researched possible targets, including a dance school in the Cwmbran area.
While investigators did not find evidence of a specific extremist ideology, they recovered the Al Qaeda Training Manual on his device, along with messages showing violent intent. He has also been handed a three‑year Criminal Behaviour Order and a 10‑year Terrorist Offender Notification Order.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Williams, of Counter Terrorism Policing Wales, said the case showed how vulnerable teenagers can be drawn into dangerous online spaces.
“Mr Morgan was not born bad. He didn’t come into the world wanting to be a terrorist or aspiring to one day kill people, let alone children. As a teenager himself when he committed the offence, he was vulnerable to the malign influences that prey on our young people in today’s online world.
The fact that he was heavily influenced by the perpetrator of one of the most horrific attacks this country has seen in recent times is a terrifying indictment of the abhorrent commentary, hateful opinion and violent imagery that too many of our young people are exposed to.”
He urged parents across Wales to stay alert to what their children are accessing online.
“It’s not about invading their privacy. Diaries were not gateways for predators to exploit. It is about us keeping them safe from harm.”
Deputy Chief Constable Nicky Brain, of Gwent Police, said the case would understandably unsettle communities.
“We understand that offences such as these can have a huge impact on our residents, especially around their sense of safety and security. Investigations of this nature are exceptionally rare in Gwent but should you have concerns then trust your instincts and please do not hesitate to report any issues.”
Bethan David, of the CPS, said:
“This conviction demonstrates our determination to prosecute those who possess terrorist material without reasonable excuse.
“The CPS worked closely with police and other agencies to present compelling evidence, ensuring the public interest was served and justice delivered.
“We take the mental health and welfare of young defendants extremely seriously, but where the evidence shows they are fit to stand trial and the public interest is clear, we will pursue prosecution.
“In this case, while the defendant expressed violent fantasies online, there was no evidence of a real plot or attempt to carry out an attack.”
Police say anyone who sees or hears something that doesn’t feel right should report it in confidence at gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, always call 999.
#CounterTerrorismPolicingWales #extremist #GwentPolice #terrorAttack #terrorism
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