The man who tagged a Jewish cemetery in Auckland has escaped a jail term today - but must return to court with a plane ticket.
On June 7, 20-year-old Christian Landmark, a British citizen, was found guilty of defacing 20 headstones at the Symonds St cemetery with Nazi swastikas and statements.
In the Auckland District Court this afternoon Judge Russell Collins offered him a chance to avoid jail, by promising to come back with proof will leave the country.
When he reappears in August, Landmark must also provide a $3,000 bank cheque for reparations and have completed 80 hours of voluntary community work.
As Landmark is not a New Zealand citizen he could not be sentenced to community service.
Justice Collins told the court he did not believe Landmark was remorseful for his attack on the graves last October, describing him as "cocky" during his trial.
"I seriously doubt you have any insight into how distressing the spraying of the symbol of that regime is to New Zealanders," he said.
"I don't think you've got any insight into the fact you come into this court seeking mercy, when the symbolism of the regime you participated in spraying all over that cemetery was devoid of any mercy itself."
At his trial, Landmark's co-accused Robert Moulden pleaded guilty and received a sentence of community service. He also gave evidence against Landmark.
Landmark's lawyer Bayden Meyer told the court today his client felt "sold down the river" by Moulden.
Landmark stood silently during the proceedings.
He is barred from any attempt to contact Moulden, and must follow strict curfew rules.
Landmark has been in custody since his trial, but bailed today on the condition that he surrender his passport.
3 News
source: newshub archive
