Is Your Teen Trying to Recruit Fascists from Their Bedroom?

Joseph Cope, a teenager who promoted right-wing terrorism online, encouraged individuals to "join your local Nazis" through his Telegram channels. Now 20, Cope began his campaign at the age of 16, moderating a channel named 'Serrano’s Division' that had over 270 subscribers. His actions included sharing extremist publications and images glorifying violence, ultimately leading to his arrest in June 2022 at his family home in Hertfordshire.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In a case that highlights the dangers of online radicalisation, Joseph Cope's actions have raised serious concerns among authorities regarding the influence of social media on youth. The Old Bailey has been examining his activities, with implications for online safety and the enforcement of terrorism laws. As Cope awaits further psychiatric evaluation and sentencing, the case underscores the ongoing challenges in combating far-right extremism, particularly among young individuals.

Key takeaways

Joseph Cope started promoting right-wing extremism online at the age of 16.
He moderated a public Telegram channel with extremist content, including Nazi propaganda.
Cope was arrested at his parents' home in Hertfordshire in June 2022.
He faces multiple charges related to encouraging terrorism and disseminating terrorist publications.
The case raises concerns about the influence of social media on young people.

Timeline: how we got here

The timeline of Joseph Cope's activities and the subsequent legal proceedings is as follows:

June 2019: Joseph Cope begins his online campaign promoting right-wing terrorism.
June 2022: Cope is arrested in his home in Hertfordshire.
2022: Initial trial begins but is disrupted due to his mental health.
October 2023: Ongoing legal proceedings and psychiatric evaluations continue.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The court has ordered extensive psychiatric reports for Cope, indicating a potential consideration of his mental health in the sentencing process. This aspect may influence the outcome and reflect broader societal concerns about the mental health of individuals involved in extremist activities.

What was already established

It was already known that Cope used platforms like Telegram to disseminate hate speech and promote violent ideologies. The existence of his channels and the nature of the content shared on them, including hundreds of documents related to right-wing extremism, had been reported prior to these legal developments.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The case has implications for UK households as it highlights the risk of youth being exposed to radical ideologies through social media. Families may be more vigilant about their children's online activities and the type of content being consumed.

Businesses and jobs

With increasing scrutiny on online content, businesses, especially those in the tech sector, may face greater pressure to monitor and regulate extremist content on their platforms. This could lead to changes in policies regarding user-generated content and community guidelines.

Policy and regulation

This case could prompt discussions around tightening laws related to online extremism and the responsibilities of social media companies in preventing radicalisation. The government may consider new policies to enhance online safety and protect young users from harmful content.

Numbers that matter

277: Subscribers to Cope's 'Serrano’s Division' Telegram channel.
Hundreds: Number of terrorist publications shared on his channels.
77: Victims of Anders Breivik’s attacks in Norway, highlighting the extremism Cope sought to emulate.
16: Age at which Cope began promoting right-wing terrorism.
1: Number of psychiatric evaluations ordered by the judge for Cope.

Definitions and jargon buster

Telegram: A messaging platform known for its privacy features, often used for group discussions, including extremist content.
Right-wing extremism: A political ideology that promotes extreme nationalist and often racist views.
Radicalisation: The process by which individuals come to adopt extremist political, social, or religious ideologies.
Mein Kampf: A book by Adolf Hitler outlining his ideology, often used as propaganda by extremist groups.
White Resistance Manual: A document containing instructions and ideologies related to white supremacist beliefs.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the court continues to evaluate Cope's mental health, there will be focus on the legal implications of his actions. This includes potential sentencing outcomes that could influence future cases involving online radicalisation.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The ongoing discussion around online safety and extremism may evolve, leading to legislative proposals aimed at curbing the spread of hate speech and radical content on social media platforms.

Signals to watch

Updates on Cope's sentencing and any changes to legal precedents regarding online extremism.
Government responses to the case and potential new policies focusing on youth safety online.
Trends in social media regulations and how platforms are addressing extremist content.

Practical guidance

Do

Educate yourself and others about recognising signs of online radicalisation.
Encourage open conversations with children about their online activities.
Report any extremist content encountered on social media platforms.

Don’t

Ignore troubling signs in online behaviour or content preferences.
Assume that only a specific demographic can be influenced by extremist ideologies.
Engage with or promote extremist groups or ideologies.

Checklist

Monitor children's online activities regularly.
Discuss the importance of critical thinking when consuming online content.
Stay informed about current events related to extremism and policy changes.
Know the resources available for reporting extremist activities or concerns.
Encourage participation in community or school programs aimed at preventing radicalisation.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Cope's case sheds light on the dangers of online radicalisation, it also highlights the complexities surrounding mental health and accountability in extremist activities. The assertion that he was exploited by a fictional character raises questions about the pressures faced by young individuals in digital spaces. Authorities must navigate these complexities in formulating effective responses to prevent online extremism.

Bottom line

The case of Joseph Cope serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat of online radicalisation among youth. It underscores the need for increased vigilance from parents, educators, and policymakers in addressing the influence of extremist ideologies in digital spaces. Understanding the implications of such cases can help society better protect young individuals from being drawn into hate-fuelled groups.

FAQs

What charges is Joseph Cope facing?

Joseph Cope faces multiple charges, including encouraging terrorism and disseminating terrorist publications through his Telegram channels.

What is the significance of the 'White Resistance Manual'?

The 'White Resistance Manual' is a terrorist document that contains instructions and ideologies promoting white supremacist beliefs, which Cope was found in possession of.

How does this case relate to online safety for children?

This case highlights the risks of online radicalisation, emphasizing the importance of monitoring children's internet usage and educating them about the dangers of extremist content.