Alleged death threats prompt first AFP anti-Semitism arrest

Police will argue a Western Sydney man harassed and made death threats to members of a Jewish group online, marking the first arrest of a federal anti-Semitism crackdown.

AFP Special Operation Avalite has charged a Western Sydney man with allegedly making death threats to members of a Jewish organisation. Picture - AFP

The Australian Federal Police has charged a Western Sydney man with allegedly making death threats against members of a Jewish group, marking the first ever arrest under its dedicated anti-Semitism taskforce.

The AFP announced the arrest on Thursday afternoon, charging a 44-year-old Blacktown man with using a carriage service to make a threat to kill and an additional charge for menace and harassment. Between the two charges there is a maximum 15-year jail penalty.

Police are set to argue he posted death threats to an unspecified Jewish association’s social media. After he was identified by police, he was arrested on Thursday, had his home searched and electronics seized.

He was granted bail and will front court on February 26.

“Special Operation Avalite was established to target high-harm, recidivist anti-Semites,’’ AFP counter-terrorism assistant commissioner Stephen Nutt said.

“The experienced investigators and analysts working under Special Operation Avalite are also working to identify prolific antisemites causing high-harm in the community.

“A number of individuals are under investigation and the community should expect further charges.”

“It is abhorrent that individuals are being targeted and threatened because of their race or religion.

“Special Operation Avalite is committed to keeping Australians safe and protecting our way of life.

“Anti-Semites should be on notice. If you engage in anti-Semitic conduct, you will investigated and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”