Synagogue firebombing accused named
Giovanni Laulu, 21, appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday morning, on a series of state and federal charges.
The prosecution sought 12 weeks before his next hearing due on the federal charge to a 'very intensive investigation' including 11 mobile phones in need of analysis that would delay the preparation of a brief.
He appeared in the dock wearing a long sleeve black shirt, and sported a thin moustache and small beard. Mr Laulu was arrested on Wednesday. Victoria Police. Credit: Supplied
Mr Laulu has been charged with three offences: arson, recklessly engaging in conduct that placed people inside in danger of death and vehicle theft.
He did not seek bail, and will remain in custody.
Counter-terror police release footage of masked suspects pouring accelerant and igniting a fire at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne's southeast. The attack is being treated as politically motivated. Detective Leading Senior Constable Stephanie Groom (centre) leaves the Melbourne Magistrates' Court following the filing hearing. Liam Beatty/ NewsWire. Credit: News Corp Australia
Mr Laulu was arrested on Wednesday 30 July as part of a series of co-ordinated raids across Melbourne's suburbs.
Victoria Police, Australian Federal Police and ASIO investigators alleged he was one of three individuals who set fire to the synagogue in Ripponlea on 6 December last year.
The early-morning fire tore through the synagogue, causing damage to the $20 million building and devastating sacred texts. The Adass Israel Synagogue received an outpouring of support from the local community. NewsWire /David Geraghty Credit: News Corp Australia
CCTV released from the incident earlier this year showed three people smash into the building, one holding a red jerry can, before the building was set alight.
The individuals arrived at the scene in a blue VW Golf, which police previously alleged was a 'communal crime car' used in a series of unrelated attacks, including at the Lux nightclub in South Yarra.
The police investigation remains ongoing as investigators seek to make further arrests.
Mr Laulu's state charges will next be heard in the Werribee Magistrates Court on 6 August, while his Commonwealth charges will be heard on 4 December for a committal mention.
He will appear via video link at those hearings.
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