Teen's alleged terror plot was 'edgy joke', court hears

The prosecution argued the teen was serious in his intentions, citing his research into homemade explosives, his possession of a terrorist bomb manual, a military handbook on improvised munitions, and a video of the Christchurch massacre. Crown prosecutor Sally Flynn told the jury that technology provided a clear indication of the defendant's acts and thoughts, relying on his messages and web searches. The teen was reportedly considering emulating US domestic terrorists like Ted Kaczynski and Timothy McVeigh.

Conversely, defence barrister Laura Reece argued the teen was a "troubled kid" experimenting with ideas and beliefs from "wildly contradictory sources" on the internet. She described his talk of bombing the Labour Day march as an "edgy joke" and highlighted his personal struggles, including his parents' separation and suicidal thoughts, as evidence of his state of mind. The jury was informed that a conviction could occur even without an attack taking place. Justice Sean Cooper is expected to provide directions to the jurors before they begin their deliberations.