Newport man who made gun part with 3D printer locked up

The court was read some of the messages which included references to Adolf Hitler and indicated he wanted to hurt Jewish people and Muslims.

A second search of Roberts’ bedroom uncovered bullets, knives, target posters and an American revolutionary flag known as the Gadsden flag, with the words ‘Don’t tread on me’,

This type of flag was seen in the US Capitol Riots in 2021.

A firearms expert told the court that the gun was “reliable and lethal”.

The court heard that Roberts had undertaken basic military training in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, and marksmanship had been an element of his training before he dropped out after five months.

During police interviews, Roberts described the messages sent as “lads’ banter”, describing the name of the group domestic terrorism as a “dark joke and in bad taste”.

He claimed he only planned to use the gun for display and used the night vision goggle “to look at the stars”.

Defending, Peter Donnison said Roberts was a self-described “nerd” with an interest in puzzles and the mechanical working of objects.

He said Roberts was “genuinely remorseful” and ashamed of his conduct, particularly the comments he made online.

Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke said she took into account Roberts’ age and immaturity but said his views and interest in military activity was relevant.

Roberts will serve half of his sentence in custody before being considered for release.