Police Scotland statement following sentencing of Sam Imrie for terrorism and other offences

Following the sentencing of Sam Imrie to seven and a half years in prison for terrorism and other offences, Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart Houston, head of Police Scotland’s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit, said:

“What is clear from this case is that Sam Imrie was influenced online by the actions of others across the world and, by stating his own intentions, posed a significant threat to wider society.

“His actions clearly could have encouraged other people with similar beliefs and intentions to carry out acts with potentially catastrophic consequences, not just in Scotland, but anywhere in the world.

“This sentencing further highlights that there is no place for hate crime in Scotland and that it will not be tolerated in any form by Police Scotland.

“We will continue to work with partners to not only prevent criminal acts taking place but also offer support to anyone who feels vulnerable to being influenced into carrying out these types of offences.

“Detectives worked swiftly to identify and arrest Sam Imrie during what was a complex and fast-paced enquiry and I would encourage anyone with even the slightest concerns about a family member, a friend, or someone in their community to please come forward and speak to police so we can take appropriate action."