A member of a neo-Nazi group in Australia has been denied bail for a second time following charges related to threatening messages directed at independent federal MP Allegra Spender. Joel Davis, 30, was taken into custody by Australian federal police on November 20 and is accused of sending a menacing message that incited harassment against Spender after she condemned a neo-Nazi rally earlier in the month.

Charges and Allegations
Davis faces a charge of using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend. The police allege that he sent a message encouraging others to direct abusive and hateful comments towards Spender. This followed her public condemnation of a protest organized by the National Socialist Network (NSN) on November 8, where approximately 60 individuals dressed in black displayed a sign and shouted slogans reminiscent of the Hitler Youth outside the New South Wales parliament. The group proclaimed their intention to advocate for a “white and free Australia” and against multiculturalism.

Bail Hearing
Davis's initial bail request was denied due to concerns that he might commit further offenses. His legal representative, Matthew Hopkins, argued that since then, Davis's circumstances have changed with the birth of his child, which he claims could lead to him missing his first Christmas with the newborn. During the bail hearing, Hopkins also cited the harsh conditions of Davis's custody, including solitary confinement, as a reason for reconsideration.

Prosecution's Opposition
The prosecution opposed the bail application, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the potential risk of further offenses. Magistrate Susan McIntyre ruled against Davis's release, stating that the arguments presented by his lawyer did not meet the high standard required for bail reconsideration. McIntyre noted that the term "rhetorical rape," mentioned in the alleged threatening message, did not diminish the strength of the prosecution's case, as it was used in a context that suggested intent to incite hostility.

Public Reaction
Davis appeared via video link from the Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre during the hearing. The case has drawn attention not only for the serious nature of the allegations but also for the broader implications regarding hate speech and political discourse in Australia. The magistrate's comments highlighted the troubling context in which Davis and his associates used language that could incite violence or hatred.

Wrap-up
As the legal proceedings continue, the case of Joel Davis underscores ongoing concerns regarding hate groups and their activities in Australia. The refusal of bail reflects the judiciary's stance on maintaining public safety and addressing the potential for further criminal behavior in cases involving hate speech and threats against public figures.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team