Pensioner, 90, fined for displaying anti-semitic placard in centre of Brighton

A 90-year-old pensioner has been fined by magistrates for displaying an anti-semitic placard in the centre of Brighton.

Paul Pawlowski, 90, retired, of London Road, Burgess Hill, was convicted of causing racially or religiously aggravated harassment, alarm or distress by displaying the placard and leaflets.

The retired man’s placard included the words: “Pull the chain. Flush the Jew mafia down the drain.”

Sussex Police spoke to Pawlowski in Old Steine, Brighton, on Sunday 28 May.

He said that if the police took his placard and leaflets, he would walk up and down North Street and shout his views, the force said.

Pawlowski denied the charge but was found guilty at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (8 August).

He was fined £150 and ordered to pay costs of £100 and a victim surcharge of £85, making £335 in total.

Sussex Police hate crime sergeant, Peter Allan, said: “I am pleased the court convicted the defendant in this case.

“People have a right to free speech but hate speech will not be tolerated.

“If hate speech is not challenged appropriately, it can lead to communities feeling a sense of unease and can send a message to perpetrators that such behaviour is acceptable.

“This sentence sends out a clear signal that we will take a robust approach to those who target individuals based on their disability, gender identity, race, religion or sexual orientation.

“I hope this case will encourage other victims of hate to report such behaviour to the police.

“We will record all such incidents and take them seriously. We will investigate any allegations, irrespective of the age or any other demographic of those involved.

“Hate crime can be reported online, by calling 101 or in an emergency 999.”