A 90-YEAR-OLD man has been convicted for handing out antisemitic leaflets in Brighton city centre.

Paul Pawlowski, from Burgess Hill, was seen holding a placard bearing the words "Pull the chain. Flush the Jew mafia down the drain" in Old Steine, Brighton.

He told police if they took his placard and leaflets he would walk up and down North Street and shout out his views during the fracas on Sunday May 28. 

Pawlowski, retired, of London Road, Burgess Hill, pleaded not guilty to racially/religiously aggravated harassment, alarm or distress when he appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday August 8.

But he convicted and fined £150, as well as paying costs of £100 and victim surcharge of £85. 

Sussex Police hate crime sergeant, Peter Allan said: "I am pleased the court convicted the defendant in this case. People have a right to free speech, but hate speech will not be tolerated.

“If hate speech is not challenged appropriately, it can lead to communities feeling a sense of unease and can send a message to perpetrators that such behaviour is acceptable. 

“This sentence sends out a clear signal that we will take a robust approach to those who target individuals based on their disability, gender identity, race, religion or sexual orientation. I hope this case will encourage other victims of hate to report such behaviour to the police. 

“We will record all such incidents and take them seriously. We will investigate any allegations, irrespective of the age or any other demographic of those involved.

"Hate crime can be reported online, by calling 101 or in an emergency 999."