Man admits arson and hate-crime graffiti spree

A MAN covered a series of landmarks in swastikas and offensive slogans, as well as setting fires during a monthlong hate-crime spree.

Austin Ross, 23, admitted setting fire to a masonic hall and school in Newport and daubing graffiti at a number of locations in the city.

He appeared at Cardiff Crown Court yesterday, where he pleaded guilty to nine counts of racially aggravated damage to property, four counts of racially aggravated intentional harassment, alarm and distress, and two counts of arson.

The Newport Masonic Hall, University of South Wales campus, the Riverfront Theatre, Maindee Primary School, Bassaleg secondary school, the Gwent Probation Service, a footbridge belonging to Newport council, and Bethel Baptist Church were damaged and vandalised in what was described by police as “a series of hate-crime incidents”.

A number of the buildings were spray-painted with swastikas, the slogan “Marxist filth” and the initials “SRN”, referring to the far-right group System Resistance Network.

The masonic hall and Bassaleg School were also set alight.

Extensive damage was caused to the fire exit door of the masonic hall.

At the school a window had been forced open and a small fire deliberately started.

Offensive graffiti had also been sprayed on the premises.

The incidents took place between May 2 and May 31 this year.

The Recorder of Cardiff, Judge Eleri Rees, adjourned Ross’ sentencing until August 21.

The defendant, of Romney Close, Bettws, Newport, was remanded in custody.