Alexander Economou has been released on bail after facing court over allegations he defaced public property with anti-Israel graffiti at Bondi Beach last year.
The 32-year-old Waverley resident, on a temporary UK visa, appeared in the Bail Division Court on Saturday after being charged with 35 offences, including property damage, unauthorised marking of premises and drug possession.
Police allege Economou vandalised a lifeguard tower and other structures along Campbell Parade between 12.40am and 2am on November 29, writing slogans including “Israel has blood on their hands” and “Israel is committing genocide”.
Authorities confirmed he is not accused of any involvement in the Bondi massacre, while investigations into a second alleged offender are ongoing.
Prosecutors opposed bail, arguing there were concerns about community safety and risk of failure to appear, and noting his passport had been surrendered due to planned overseas travel. The prosecutor told the court the alleged conduct was concerning given tensions in the area, saying it could “stir up community hatred”.
Defence lawyers said Economou had lived in Australia for four years and worked as a chef in Bondi for five months, had no prior convictions, and proposed strict bail conditions including residence requirements and passport surrender.
Acting Judge Sharon Wills granted bail, describing the allegations as serious but isolated, and imposed conditions restricting Economou from entering Bondi except for work and from attending any airport or departure point.
Economou reacted emotionally in court, responding “Yes, Your Honour” after bail conditions were outlined. He is due to return to court at Sydney’s Downing Centre on April 30.
Source: Daily Telegraph.
