The leader of the neo-Nazi Australian Nationalist Movement was jailed for 18 years in Perth, Western Australia, this week for a series of violent crimes described by the court as “a terrorist campaign.”
Jack Van Tongeren, 42, was found guilty on 53 counts, including arson, aggravated assault, breaking and entering, and criminal conspiracy to terrorize Asians.
He was sentenced to 107 years, but will spend only 18 behind bars because most of the sentences will be served concurrently.
Five other members of the racist group were also convicted. One, not considered a leading member, was sentenced to three years in prison, and another was given a probationary sentence as an accessory to major crimes.
Three are awaiting sentence.
Van Tongeren was unrepentant. He boasted in court that the Nationalist Movement warred on Asians, Jews and blacks because the group’s members are “true patriots.”
Judge Kevin Hammond of the Perth District Court described the accused as a charismatic individual who led a long terrorist war against the public of Western Australia.
“It is no exaggeration to term your conspiracy a terrorist campaign,” the judge said.
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