“I want to express … my disgust, my anger at this appalling conduct,” Patton said on Saturday. “It’s abhorrent conduct, and it doesn’t matter who commits it, we will investigate it.”
Patton also took the chance to “profoundly apologise” to Victoria’s Jewish community, for which he said the incidents would “only exacerbate [the] grief and pain” felt following the anniversary of last year’s October 7 attacks on Israel by terrorist organisation Hamas.
“I couldn’t believe it when I heard it,” Patton said. “Victoria Police is better than this. It lets down our reputation.”
He said police would investigate, and praised the swift action since the alleged incidents were reported during the week.
A police spokeswoman said on Saturday afternoon that Finegan was interviewed by Professional Standards Command detectives in relation to allegedly performing a Nazi salute on two occasions.
“The officer has been released without charge at this stage as the investigation remains ongoing,” the spokeswoman said.
“A brief of evidence will be prepared regarding the incidents with the member expected to be charged on summons.”
Finegan works within the People Development Command, which is managed by deputy commissioner of capability Robert Hill.
Professional Standards Command, another department overseen by Hill, is investigating the allegations.
Both departments are listed among seven groups responsible for upholding diversity and inclusion in Victoria Police’s workforce framework.
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The Police Association of Victoria, the representative union organisation, also criticised the alleged incident.
“[We have] consistently condemned this offensive gesture and urged the government to toughen legislation and penalties against those who perform it,” a spokesperson said. “That stance applies to everyone in our community.”
Laws banning Nazi symbols and gestures in public were introduced by the state government in October last year. A person who commits an offence faces maximum penalties of a fine of $23,000, 12 months’ prison, or both.
On Wednesday, Jacob Hersant, 25, became the first person in Victoria to be found guilty of performing a Nazi salute in public. A magistrate has indicated he will jail Hersant, who is awaiting sentence.
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Other men have also been charged with the same offence, including Nathan Bull, who allegedly performed the Nazi salute at Carlton’s Cinema Nova in March.
In Sydney, prominent restaurateur Alan Yazbek was charged after holding a sign which displayed the Israeli flag with a swastika at a rally on Sunday. He has since apologised, and is set to face court later this month.
The Victorian Police Academy is located in Glen Waverley, in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs. It is where new officers complete their first 31 weeks of training upon joining the force.
The sergeant has been suspended with pay and is expected to be interviewed on Saturday. The criminal investigation is ongoing.
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