Emad Saad charged with multiple anti-Semitic graffiti offences across Sydney’s east

A 41-year-old man has been charged in relation to multiple alleged anti-Semitic graffiti incidents across Sydney’s east in January.

A man allegedly linked to multiple anti-Semitic graffiti incidents including vile words being sprayed onto a home and neighbouring school in Sydney’s east will remain behind bars on remand.

Emad Saad, 41, did not front the Downing Centre on Friday after he was charged with destroying or damaging property, intending criminal activity of group, destroy or damage property in company less than or equal to $2000, take and drive conveyance without the consent of owner, and drive motor vehicle during disqualification period.

He was also charged with drug supply more than small and less than or equal to indictable quantity and two counts of drug possession.

Police were called to multiple locations in Sydney’s east after reports of malicious damage on January 30, including Jewish primary school, Mount Sinai College, a nearby home on Hannan St and Eastgardens shopping centre.

Officers allegedly located multiple forms of antisemitic graffiti with The Daily Telegraph previously speaking to Jewish leaders who condemned the alleged offences.

Graffiti removalists painted over anti-Semitic graffiti on Mount Sinai College in Maroubra. Picture Thomas Lisson

“It is grotesque and sickening that schoolchildren are going to have to walk past this repellent hate speech on their way into school this morning,” Jewish Board of Deputies President David Ossip said after the alleged incident.

Police were also called to a home on Sparks St in Eastlakes after further reports of alleged anti-Semitic graffiti.

Further anti-Semitic graffiti. Picture Thomas Lisson

Police established crime scenes at all locations and began investigations with inquiries under Strike Force Pearl leading police to believe all alleged incidents were linked.

Saad was arrested by detectives on Thursday in Eastlakes after extensive inquiries with police allegedly locating and seizing multiple drugs.

He was taken to Mascot Police Station and charged.

Saad’s lawyer told the court on Friday he was not required on screen before the matter was adjourned to early April.

The police prosecutor said the matter was “likely to be referred” to the DPP.