Queensland Man Arrested for Encouraging Political Violence Online
Quick Look
- A 48-year-old Queensland man, Alexander Kent Wadsworth, has been arrested and charged with encouraging politically motivated violence online.
- The Joint Counter Terrorism Team alleges he posted concerning content on an encrypted social media site, prompting the investigation.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) in Queensland, comprising the Queensland Police Service, Australian Federal Police, and ASIO, has arrested a man for allegedly encouraging acts of violence against political institutions. The investigation began earlier this month after concerns were raised about online posts.
A 48-year-old Queensland man has been arrested by the state's Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) over allegations he encouraged acts of violence against political institutions.
Alexander Kent Wadsworth was charged after officers searched a property in Bowenville, outside Toowoomba.
The JCTT includes the Queensland Police Service, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.
In a joint statement, the agencies said the investigation began earlier this month.
"Investigators will allege the man was responsible for the posts, which encouraged others to carry out acts of politically motivated violence in Australia and overseas," they said.
He has been charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
Mr Wadsworth is due to face Warwick Magistrates Court this morning.
AFP Detective Superintendent Bill Freeman said the AFP was acting on information that people were promoting or encouraging violence online.
"Protecting the community from harm is our highest priority, and that means acting early when we see warning signs of extremist or violent behaviour," he said.
Police Superintendent Jason Hindmarsh said each of the agencies were "focusing on the disruption of violent ideologies".
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Alexander Kent Wadsworth will face trial.
Very likely · Within months
Open Questions
- What specific political institutions were targeted?
- What was the nature of the 'concerning posts'?
- What is the extent of the alleged overseas encouragement?
- What is the maximum penalty Wadsworth faces if convicted?