Six Sentenced in London to Prison for Setting Fire to Synagogues

Prison terms ranging from six months to five years were imposed today on six former members of the tiny British National Socialist Party, who were convicted of “maliciously setting fire” to two East London synagogues last July.

Hugh Hughes, 27, was given a five-year term. Malcolm Sparks, 19, was sentenced to four years. Colin Rainburd, 20, and Graham Chant, 18, each received three-year terms; Paul Dukes, 19, was given the six-month term. Alex Gordon, 23, was found guilty of complicity in only one of the two arson efforts, and received a three-year term. They were accused of starting fires at the Ilford District Synagogue and the Leabridge Road Synagogue.

Justice Phillimore, in imposing sentence, denounced the defendants’ association with the neo-Nazi movement, describing the doctrines of the movement as “those of Hitler and the Nazi Party of many years ago.” The jurist emphasized that the defendants were not being punished for their beliefs because “anybody in this country can believe anything he likes.” But, he told the six men, “you have chosen to interfere with the freedom of worship of respectable Jewish citizens of this country and to destroy their property. You defaced the walls of their synagogues and then set fire to them.”

The jurist said he had no doubt that the defendants were led to the acts “by the indoctrination you have received in this pernicious movement” and that he was convinced the leaders of the neo-Nazi movement “inculcated not only hatred of the Jews and colored people but also encouraged active steps against them. These are grave crimes and it is my duty to make an example of you in the hope that those who share your beliefs will think twice before following your example.”