Ex-soldier terror plotter admits perverting course of justice

William Howitt admitted perverting the course of justice between March and June 2022

An ex-soldier who planned to burn down a left-wing bookshop has also admitted perverting the course of justice.

William Howitt, 27, was convicted of preparing a terrorist act at Birmingham Crown Court on November 16.

He wrote a guide on carrying out the attack on the Five Leaves Bookshop in Nottingham, the jury had heard.

At Nottingham Crown Court on Friday, he pleaded guilty to doing a series of acts to pervert the course of justice. He will be sentenced on 20 December.

Howitt, of West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, was remanded in custody.

He admitted perverting the course of justice between 24 March and 20 June 2022, but was found guilty of the terrorism charge.

Howitt's plan involved smashing the windows of the bookshop and dousing books and upholstery with petrol

Howitt admired Adolf Hitler, the trial in Birmingham had heard.

The guide for burning down the bookshop was written on 7 September 2020.

It referenced smashing the windows of the bookshop and dousing books and upholstery with petrol.

On the same day, Howitt bought a hammer to break glass and tarpaulin - both items mentioned in the plan.

The plan included painting a swastika and "white lives matter" on the wall.

Giving evidence earlier this month, Howitt, who became a crane operator after leaving the Army, denied having racist views.

He said he had issues with his mental health and would say things he did not mean when abusing cocaine and alcohol.

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