Jason Savage, 35, was found guilty of planning a terrorist attack in Birmingham, targeting a cleric critical of extremism.
During his trial, the jury learned that Savage, 35, converted to Islam in the 2010s. He followed a violent interpretation of the Salafi movement.
Prosecutors revealed that Savage targeted a Salafi cleric. This cleric was critical of Islamist terrorism, which Savage supported.
West Midlands Police stated that Savage planned the attack from March 2022 until his arrest. He was caught just days before he intended to act.
The jury saw a video Savage made before his arrest. It showed him scouting the mosque and bookstore, discussing entry points and escape routes.
He also watched violent videos and researched how to kill with a knife. He looked into making gun parts and targeting military buildings.
Savage was caught after sharing his plans on WhatsApp. He thought he was talking to a friend, but it was an undercover officer.
After being charged under the Terrorism Act, police found a modified knife at his home. He had removed the handle and wrapped it in cloth.
Savage, from Fourth Avenue in Small Heath, will be sentenced on April 4. The police acted quickly to prevent a potential attack and protect the public.
