Police sergeant suspended on pay after allegedly performing Nazi salutes

The female officer allegedly performed the banned gestures twice this week.

A police sergeant who allegedly performed Nazi salutes has been suspended on pay.

The people development command officer was suspended on Friday evening following allegations she performed a Nazi salute twice this week.

Both alleged occasions were in front of colleagues at the Victoria Police Academy on Tuesday and Wednesday while the officer was on duty.

The Professional Standards Command are investigating the incidents.

The officer has been suspended on pay.

The officer has been suspended on pay. Picture: NewsWire / Diego Fedele

A statement from a Victoria Police spokesperson said “it wouldn’t be appropriate to comment further at this time” as the “matter is ongoing”.

Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich, who campaigned for criminal penalties for the Nazi salute, said “Victorians deserve better”.

“I feel like I have been kicked in the stomach,” Dr Abramovich said.

“A Nazi salute isn’t just a gesture — it’s a horrifying symbol of genocide, terror, and antisemitism, and for a police officer to wield this emblem of hate is beyond disturbing.

“In moments like these, we are reminded that the fight against intolerance is ongoing so let this be a moment for reflection, action, and a renewed commitment to a rooting our such behaviour.”

Dr Abramovich also commended the swift action of Victoria Police, adding he hopes “it will take measures to show the world that Victoria will not tolerate hate, period” while noting the incident underscores the need for “continued and enhanced training within law enforcement”.

The alleged incidents follow the banning of Nazi salutes, symbols and gestures in Victoria in October 2023.

The first person was found guilty of performing the banned gesture this week.

He performed the gesture in October last year, days after the new laws came in.

Originally published as Police sergeant suspended on pay after allegedly performing Nazi salutes