UPDATE: A Sydney court is preparing to sentence two young men involved in a shocking anti-Semitic vandalism spree that caused over $100,000 in damages. The attack took place on November 21, 2022, in Woollahra, an area with a significant Jewish community.
Court proceedings revealed that Mohommed Farhat, aged 20, pleaded guilty to his role in this late-night rampage, which included setting fire to one car and vandalizing 10 vehicles, three properties, and a fire station. His co-accused, Thomas Stojanovski, also admitted involvement in the spree that has raised serious questions about the motivations behind their actions.
During today’s hearing at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court, Judge Scott Nash emphasized the need to understand the mindset of the offenders before sentencing. “Is that this situation or are these individuals motivated themselves by religious hate?” he questioned, highlighting the importance of knowing whether they acted under external influence or out of personal conviction.
The case’s emotional weight was underscored as Farhat has been engaging with Ellie Nagel, a leader in Sydney’s Jewish community, from prison to gain insight into the impact of his actions. The court also learned of Farhat’s mental health struggles, including diagnoses of ADHD and depression, which may play a role in his behavior.
Crown prosecutor Jot Mehta argued that both men should be held fully accountable for their actions. However, Farhat’s attorney, Rebekah Rodger, contended that the situation is not as straightforward as the prosecution suggests, implying possible external influences on their decision-making.
The vandalism spree left a trail of destruction, including damages to celebrity chef Matt Moran’s Chiswick restaurant, where graffiti reading “F**k Israel” was found on tables and windows. Court documents reveal that before the attack, the two men purchased materials, including fuel and a lighter, at a petrol station, indicating a premeditated effort.
Surveillance footage captured them partially concealing their faces as they vandalized vehicles and buildings. The climax of their spree involved setting a $86,000 Ford Ranger ablaze, resulting in an additional $16,000 in damages to surrounding vehicles.
Following the attack, Farhat was apprehended at Sydney International Airport while attempting to leave for Bali, with Stojanovski arrested three days later at his home in Arncliffe. Farhat has spent the last nine months in custody and will remain there until sentencing.
Both defendants are scheduled to face the court again later this month in November, as the community watches closely for the outcome of their case. The implications of their actions resonate far beyond the financial damages, raising critical conversations about hate-related crimes and community safety.
Stay tuned for more updates as this case develops.
