Terrorism charges against Burlington, Ontario man accused in RCMP incel investigation

A Burlington man faces terrorism charges following an investigation by the RCMP.

The man is accused of spreading incel ideology and uttering death threats through social media channels.

Incel, short for involuntary celibate, is an ideology promoted by misogynists who are unable to obtain romantic partners.

DeAndre Anderson, 24, is charged with two counts of uttering threats under the Criminal Code of Canada.

The RCMP allege Anderson used online social media accounts to make the threats in support of incel beliefs.

Initially charged in April of this year, recently the Deputy Director of the Public Prosecution Service of Canada and the Assistant Deputy Attorney General for the Ministry of the Attorney General advised the court that they consented to the start of terrorism proceedings against Anderson which has elevated the charges.

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“With limited information, the RCMP…were able to identify and swiftly prevent a threat to public safety. I am proud of the effort and ingenuity of our members and grateful for the collaboration with our policing partners in Toronto and Halton regions to advance this investigation,” said Supt. James Parr, Officer-in-Charge, RCMP Federal Policing Integrated National Security Enforcement Team.

Anderson is scheduled to appear in court on June 28.

A publication ban has been put into place regarding information, evidence, or representations made at the hearing. Bail conditions and any evidence or materials relied upon at the hearing are prohibited from disclosure.

In Canada, incel threats can be considered terrorism and follow high-profile cases in Toronto such as the van attack on Yonge Street in 2018 that led to the death of 10 people and injured 16 others.