Austrian Court Jails Taylor Swift Concert Plot Acquaintance

Convicted on Terrorism Charges Unrelated to Music Attack Plot

An acquaintance of the main suspect in a foiled plot to attack Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna last year has been sentenced to two years in prison. The conviction, however, stems from unrelated terrorism charges.

Terrorism Organization Involvement

The 18-year-old defendant, identified locally as **Luca K.**, was found guilty of belonging to a terrorist and criminal organization. He largely admitted to spreading Islamic State group propaganda and praising an IS sympathizer responsible for a 2020 Vienna attack that killed four people.

No Direct Link to Swift Concert Plot

While **Luca K.** was apprehended shortly before the planned August concerts, he was not charged in connection with the specific plot against the performances. His defense lawyer, **Michael Dorn**, stated that **Luca K.** was not a close associate of **Beran A.**, the 20-year-old primary suspect still under investigation.

The convicted youth, who converted to Islam in 2022, expressed remorse for his actions and relief at his arrest. According to reports, he stated, “I have had a daughter, now I see life more seriously.” The time he has already served in custody will be applied to his sentence. The verdict is subject to appeal.

Broader Context of Extremism

This conviction highlights ongoing concerns about radicalization, particularly among young individuals. In 2023, European Union countries reported a total of 22,048 attempted terrorist attacks, plot disruptions, and radicalizations, a significant increase from previous years, according to Europol data (Europol Threat Report 2024).