A man with neo-Nazi beliefs who created explosives in his shed with the intention of harming Muslims has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison.

Harry Whittaker, 33, was found to have manufactured a homemade bomb and stored dangerous chemicals in a makeshift lab in his mother’s garden in Caddington, near Luton, Bedfordshire. The explosives were discovered by police after Whittaker suffered a severe allergic reaction and required emergency medical assistance on April 18, 2024.

Following his arrest, authorities uncovered racist conversations on WhatsApp where Whittaker expressed violent sentiments towards a mosque in Luton. He was convicted of possessing and producing explosives by May 6, 2024, along with other charges related to possessing ammunition and violating the Poisons Act.

During the trial at the Old Bailey, it was revealed that Whittaker had extreme right-wing ideologies, including downloading material and making threats involving poison. Despite being described as a science enthusiast, he maintained racist views and continued to exhibit dangerous behaviors even after his conviction.

In his defense, Whittaker’s lawyer argued that the explosives were for scientific purposes and that there was no direct link between his actions and his racist beliefs. However, the judge noted Whittaker’s high intelligence and past criminal behavior, deeming him a dangerous individual with a potential risk to the public.

The police’s search of Whittaker’s residence revealed a cache of hazardous materials, including explosives, chemicals, poisonous substances, and radioactive elements. Whittaker was also found in possession of heroin during his arrest.

Law enforcement officials commended the community for their support during the investigation, emphasizing the potential harm Whittaker’s actions posed to the neighborhood. The Commander of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command highlighted the recklessness of Whittaker’s actions, emphasizing the danger he had put his family and neighbors in by creating explosive devices and storing toxic chemicals.