A 19-year-old man has been charged with a terrorism offense in New South Wales after briefly entering the office of State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp with plans to kill him, according to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Thursday.
The suspect, identified as Jordan Patten from Raymond Terrace, New South Wales, appeared before the Newcastle Local Court via audio-visual link and was refused bail. He faces one count of acts done in preparation for, or planning, a terrorist act under Section 101.6 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). Approximately 205 pages of anti-immigration and anti-diversity rhetoric were distributed by Patten, indicating an ideological alignment similar to the Christchurch mosque shooter, as confirmed by authorities.
On June 26, Patten entered Crakanthorp’s office but left without engaging with staff. Significantly, he was found at the Newcastle Museum shortly after, equipped with a knife, tactical gear, and a GoPro, leading to his arrest. The police’s statement indicated that there were no injuries during the incident, which underscores the prompt action taken by the authorities.
Investigations are being handled by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team, incorporating members from the NSW Police Force, AFP, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), and NSW Crime Commission. Acting Magistrate Anthony Spence highlighted the intent to kill Crakanthorp, emphasizing the seriousness of the threat posed due to Crakanthorp’s status as a member of parliament.
Patten’s brother, William, spoke to local media, describing his brother as a “quiet and smart introvert” with mental health concerns, reinforcing the need for vigilance against individuals radicalized by extremist content. Jordan Patten is set to return to court on August 21, potentially facing life imprisonment.
Knife violence in New South Wales is relatively rare, but it’s notable that there has been an uptick in such incidents recently. An April 28 stabbing at a church in Wakeley and a fatal police shooting in Bondi after six individuals were stabbed underscore the rising concern over knife-related terrorism acts in the region.
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