A 37-year-old man has been charged with numerous offences, including six counts each of criminal damage and offensive graffiti, following a police search at his residence in South Yarra. Authorities allege that between March and July of this year, he vandalised the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation located on Toorak Road with offensive graffiti on six occasions.
Investigators revealed they seized items linked to the alleged offences during the search. The charges also extend to multiple counts for operating an unlicensed vehicle, unlicensed driving, and failing to stop when directed by police.
Earlier this month, police released CCTV footage identifying the suspect arriving at the synagogue on a black e-scooter. In two separate instances in July, he was seen wearing a Scream mask to conceal his identity.
The graffiti incidents at the heritage-listed synagogue reportedly involved messages such as “free Palestine” and “Iran is da bomb,” sprayed in bright red and blue hues. These acts of vandalism occurred on March 11, June 21, June 22, July 22, and July 30.
Inspector Martin McLean commented on the situation, expressing that the police view such abhorrent behaviour in public spaces very seriously. The accused is scheduled to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 21.