A man from Solihull has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison after confessing to posting offensive content online with the intention of promoting racial hatred and supporting a banned terrorist group associated with far-right ideologies.
Richard Osborne, 53 years old and residing in Marston Green, received a sentence of three years and ten months for publishing material aimed at provoking racial hatred and homophobia.
Between 2021 and his arrest in January of this year, Osborne utilized social media to share content that strongly indicated his endorsement of white supremacy and neo-Nazi beliefs.
Upon his arrest, law enforcement conducted a search of his property. They discovered a modified baton in his car, which was originally a metal bar, resulting in a charge of possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.
During the search of his residence, a shotgun was found concealed under a bed, leading to an additional charge of possession without a license.
Osborne pleaded guilty to all charges during a court hearing held last month (12 May).
Detective Superintendent Anastasia Miller, representing the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), stated: “By pleading guilty, Osborne acknowledged his extremist far-right views. Our investigation provided compelling evidence of his support for white supremacists and a proscribed far-right group that the government has banned.”
She further added, “Individuals who hold extreme views and harbor animosity towards those who are different or disagree with them are not accepted in our society. Today’s sentencing serves as a clear message to those who intend to spread hatred and instill fear: we will work with our partners and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to safeguard our communities by pursuing and prosecuting such individuals.”
“We devote relentless efforts to combat terrorism, prioritizing the safety and security of the people residing, working, and visiting the West Midlands region,” emphasized Detective Superintendent Miller.
Every year, countless reports from the public assist the police in addressing the terrorist threat. If you witness or hear something suspicious, trust your instincts and take action by confidentially reporting it to the police via gov.uk/ACT.
Reporting will not ruin lives, but it has the potential to save them. Remember, in case of an emergency, always dial 999.
