Hate crime charges dropped in synagogue ramming case
Matthew Alexander Donald de Campo pleaded guilty in August to wilful damage and drug possession. Hate crime charges were dropped due to drug use and mental illness. He was sentenced to six months in jail.
Matthew Alexander Donald de Campo rammed his ute into the Brisbane Synagogue gate on February 20. The damage was $12,000.
De Campo faced Brisbane Magistrates Court. De Campo pleaded guilty in August to wilful damage and having methamphetamine.
Prosecutors asked to drop the hate crime charge. Police evidence showed he was too drunk to have meant hatred or contempt.
A workplace injury led De Campo to use drugs. He experienced drug-caused psychosis before the incident.
The magistrate saw he felt real remorse for the scary act. She noted his strong work in drug treatment.
He got six months in jail but was released on parole. He had already served 83 days in custody.
- $12,000 to synagogue gate
- Damage caused
- February 20
- Incident date
- 83 days already served
- Time in custody
Why it mattersThis case shows how courts balance mental health and drug abuse against what looks like a hate crime. The focus shifted from punishment to treatment.
AustraliaThe case reflects broader concerns about safety at religious sites in Australia and how the justice system balances accountability with support for mental health issues.
Corroborated byperthnow.com.au·theage.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 6 d ago
