A Canberra man who allegedly performed Nazi salutes in public and put propaganda up on public buildings over several months has been granted bail in the ACT Magistrates Court after spending Christmas Day in custody.
Zachery Hook, 18, was arrested after a raid on his home at Weston on Christmas Eve by a joint team, including the National Security Investigations group, which was set up in September to investigate hate crimes.
Chief Magistrate Lorraine Walker agreed to grant bail, but on strict conditions. (ABC News: Callum Flinn)
He has been charged by police with six offences, including making an offensive gesture in the Nazi salute, damaging the Islamic Studies Centre at the Australian National University (ANU) and repeatedly placing stickers with Nazi symbols in public spaces, including shopping centres.
Police allege on one occasion, when a member of the public challenged him over the stickers, he turned and performed the Nazi salute.
Police said they had seized mobile phones, a computer, stickers, storage devices, clothing and a video camera during the search of Mr Hook’s home.
Court hears concerns about accused’s links to far-right group
Prosecutor Imogen Thomas told the court authorities were also concerned about his association with the National Socialist Network, with police having observed him near the group’s activities.
“We do consider the offences to be serious and harmful,”
Ms Thomas said.
The court heard he works two jobs, but has no connection by study or work with the ANU.
His lawyer, Anastasia Qvist, told the court Mr Hook had had time to reflect since his arrest.
“He has felt the deterrent effect of custody,”
she said.
Ms Qvist said Mr Hook himself suggested he could be banned from leaving the ACT to ensure he has no contact with the National Socialist Network, which holds most of its events interstate.
Chief Magistrate Lorraine Walker agreed to grant bail, but on strict conditions.
That includes daily reporting, supervision, a ban on going to the ANU, and for Mr Hook to surrender all of his electronic devices, as well as a requirement to remain in Canberra.
The case will return to court in January.