An individual from Ontario, previously associated with a neo-Nazi organization, has confessed to terrorism-related crimes and expressed remorse for his past actions. During his sentencing hearing, Matthew Althorpe acknowledged his previous extremist beliefs and described himself as a “complete monster at times.” His legal representative, Robb MacDonald, suggested a sentence of 12 to 14 years, seeking a shorter term than the 20 years proposed by the prosecution.
Althorpe has acknowledged his involvement in producing white supremacist materials while being part of the Atomwaffen Division, a terrorist group that operated from around 2018 until its dissolution in 2020 or 2021. Court documents revealed that he played a leadership role in Terrorgram, a network on the messaging app Telegram known for promoting violent ideologies and hatred.
The defendant, hailing from the Niagara Region, co-authored manifestos and generated content advocating violence against various minority groups. MacDonald argued that Althorpe’s admission of guilt and remorse should be taken into consideration, emphasizing that he did not take concrete steps to carry out any attacks, distinguishing him from other convicted terrorists.
In response, Crown prosecutor Amber Pashuk contended that Althorpe’s actions had tangible real-world consequences. The confirmed facts presented in court stated that Althorpe’s online content on Terrorgram had inspired several terrorist incidents, including an attack on LGBTQ+ individuals in Slovakia in 2022 and a mosque stabbing in Turkey in 2024.
MacDonald portrayed his client as a troubled young man who veered off course due to childhood trauma and untreated mental health issues. Althorpe, seeking solace, found camaraderie among white supremacists during his adolescence, using extremist ideologies as a coping mechanism.
The defense attorney highlighted Althorpe’s tumultuous background, referring to him as a “ticking time bomb” due to the convergence of his personal challenges. Initially facing eight terrorism charges, Althorpe pleaded guilty to three offenses. His sentencing is scheduled for March 27, following his arrest by the RCMP in December 2023.