Greek Australian man charged over alleged online abuse of federal MP
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
A 32-year-old Greek Australian man from Melbourne has been charged after allegedly sending abusive messages and making a menacing phone call to a federal parliamentarian, as well as defacing a flag at the MP’s electoral office.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) said the alleged behaviour unfolded over several weeks, beginning with multiple harassing emails sent to the parliamentarian’s office before escalating to a phone call that reportedly included hateful and threatening language.
The MP’s office alerted authorities, prompting an investigation by the AFP’s National Security Investigations (NSI) team, established in September this year to respond to threats against social cohesion and the targeting of federal parliamentarians.
AFP officers executed a search warrant at a property in Mernda on Thursday, seizing electronic devices and what the AFP described as “offensive material”.
The man has been charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17 of the Criminal Code. The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.
He is expected to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 27 November.
AFP acting Assistant Commissioner Matthew Gale said the agency remained firm in its response to threats and harassment directed at elected officials.
“The AFP supports freedom of speech and political expression, but any criminal behaviour, including threats and harassment, will not be tolerated,” he said.
“We are putting on notice any individual or group attempting to erode our country’s social fabric by advocating hatred and fear.
“Whether offending occurs online or in-person, the AFP will use its unique capabilities and legislation to collect intelligence and evidence, and prosecute those who seek to harm our community.”
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