A dangerous hoaxer who deliberately targeted a Manchester synagogue with bomb threats while invoking memories of the Manchester Arena atrocity has been handed a prison sentence.
Joshua Walker, 28, made a chilling phone call to the Manchester Reform Synagogue in September 2023, declaring he would "bomb the synagogue" and making direct reference to the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing that claimed 22 lives.
A Calculated Act of Terror
Manchester Crown Court heard how Walker's threatening call was a deliberate attempt to cause maximum fear and distress within the Jewish community. The defendant specifically mentioned the Manchester attack during his menacing communication, showing clear awareness of the trauma still affecting the city.
Prosecutors described the incident as a "malicious and targeted" act designed to exploit community vulnerabilities and recent historical tragedies.
Swift Police Response
Following the threatening call, Greater Manchester Police launched an immediate investigation and response. The synagogue was evacuated as a precautionary measure while specialist officers conducted thorough searches of the premises.
Detective Chief Inspector James Roche of GMP's Counter Terrorism Police North West unit stated: "This was an abhorrent crime that targeted a place of worship and sought to create fear within our communities."
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Walker, of no fixed address, ultimately pleaded guilty to communicating false information about a bomb hoax. The court heard he had previous convictions for similar offences, demonstrating a pattern of threatening behaviour.
In sentencing Walker to immediate custody, the judge emphasized the severe impact such threats have on communities still healing from past tragedies. The sentence reflects the seriousness with which the courts treat offences that exploit collective trauma for malicious purposes.
Community Impact
Local community leaders have welcomed the sentencing, noting the particular distress caused by referencing the Manchester Arena attack. The incident occurred as the city continues to remember and recover from one of its darkest days.
A representative from the Manchester Jewish community stated: "While we're relieved this individual has been brought to justice, the emotional scars from such targeted threats run deep. We thank the police for their swift and professional response."
The case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of terrorism and the importance of robust legal responses to those who would exploit community trauma for malicious purposes.
