Man charged for allegedly performing Nazi salutes in public

Published 2 hours ago
Source: 9news.com.au
Man charged for allegedly performing Nazi salutes in public

A Canberra man has been charged with allegedly performing Nazi salutes in public, as well as trespassing and defacing Commonwealth property.

The 18-year-old allegedly performed two separate Nazi salutes directed towards people at a suburban shopping centre in Canberra over recent months.

"Anyone allegedly performing Nazi salutes is displaying criminal behaviour that brings pain and anguish to the Jewish community and divides Australian society," AFP Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt said.

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The man allegedly performed two separate Nazi salutes directed towards individuals at suburban Canberra shopping centres.

The Weston man allegedly trespassed at the Australian National University on multiple occasions in August and September and stuck propaganda-style stickers on buildings and other property

It will be alleged that the man performed a Nazi salute towards an individual who confronted him while he was placing stickers at a shopping centre in October.

He allegedly performed a Nazi salute on December 12 at a separate shopping centre.

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The man is expected to face court today.Officers seized mobile phones, a computer, stickers, storage devices, a video camera and clothing.

A search warrant was later executed on his property on Wednesday.

Police seized multiple items, including mobile phones, a computer, stickers, storage devices, a video camera and clothing.

The man was charged with two counts of public display of prohibited Nazi symbols or giving Nazi salute, two counts of damaging Commonwealth property and two counts of offensive or disorderly behaviour on Commonwealth premises.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Counter Terrorism & Special Investigations Stephen Nutt said the acts will not be tolerated by the AFP.

"The AFP established the National Security Investigations team in September to target groups and individuals causing high harm to Australia's social cohesion, including attempts to vilify marginalised communities.

"Antisemitism is a cancer that requires swift and direct action, which is what the AFP is continuing to do. Along with our law enforcement partners, we are committed to stopping hate, division and violence in the community."

The 18-year-old will face court today.

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