A 65-year-old police instructor at the Victoria state police academy in Melbourne is likely to face charges for performing a Nazi salute and praising Adolf Hitler with the phrase 'Heil Hitler' on October 8 and 9, 2024. This incident has sparked outrage, with Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton expressing disappointment and anger, stating there is no place for such conduct in society or within the police force [4059e918]. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $23,000 AUD (approximately $16,000 USD). Following the incident, the instructor, who has over 40 years of service, was suspended on October 11, 2024, and is currently under investigation [4059e918]. This incident comes on the heels of the recent sentencing of Jacob Hersant, the first person in Australia to be jailed for performing a Nazi salute, highlighting growing concerns about antisemitism in the country. The timing of this incident is particularly sensitive, occurring shortly after the anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which has heightened sensitivities within the Jewish community [4059e918].