WA teen referred to de-radicalisation program after threat to Sydney mosque
A Western Australian teenager accused of threatening a terrorist attack against a Sydney mosque could have his charges dismissed.
The 16-year-old fronted court today for the first time and was ordered to undertake a de-radicalisation program that helps people with violent extremist views.
In March, the teen sparked fear after posting a comment on the Australian Islamic House's Instagram page.
READ MORE: WA dad calls on son's alleged attacker to face adult justice system
A Bunbury teenager accused of threatening violence against a Sydney mosque has been referred to a de-radicalisation program after accepting responsibility in court. 9News
"I'm going to Christchurch 2.0 this joint," it read.
The comment appearing to reference a repeat of the 2019 Christchurch terror attack, when 51 people were shot dead in New Zealand.
Police launched a nationwide investigation before arresting the boy at his Eaton home near Bunbury, 4000 kilometers from the Sydney mosque.
He was charged with creating false apprehension to the existence of threats or danger.
Officers found videos of the New Zealand shooting after seizing his mobile phone.
READ MORE: 'I seen him hit him': Accused murderer blames mate
The comment appearing to reference a repeat of the 2019 Christchurch terror attack, when 51 people were shot dead in New Zealand. 9News
They also uncovered a black ski mask, which police say is like the one worn by the Christchurch attacker.
The boy at the time said his comment was just a joke.
But the magistrate today did not find any humour.
"Your actions have caused fear in a community already on edge," they said.
The teenager, who accepted responsibility in court, must now compete a national countering violence extremism program.
DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP: Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
Most viewed in WA
‘Can’t remember paddling out’: Hero surfer who rescued shark attack victim speaks out
Two teenagers charged after allegedly breaking into zoo, hitting croc with a pole
WA surfer faces ‘long recovery’ after reportedly losing foot in horror shark attack
Man charged over footage of toddler driving through Perth streets