An Australian man, Sean David Sharman, has been sentenced for sending racist and misogynistic emails threatening to kill Afghan-origin Senator Fatima Payman. The 51-year-old man confessed to the threats in June.

Sharman referred to Payman as a“domestic terrorist” and“disgusting Muslim” in his emails. The threats, which were sent with offensive language, sparked outrage and concern over rising hate speech targeting public figures.

In his defense, Sharman claimed he was drunk at the time and couldn't remember sending the emails. However, the judge dismissed this, noting the emails were clear, well-written, and free of errors.

Judge Julia Barling sentenced Sharman to 18 months in a social rehabilitation program rather than prison. She emphasized that if Sharman had a prior criminal record, he would have likely faced jail time.

The judge also highlighted the seriousness of the offense, describing the emails as“highly offensive” and“repulsive.” She warned Sharman to take the sentence seriously and follow the program's conditions.

Sharman's history of alcohol abuse and mental health issues will be addressed in his rehabilitation program. The court ordered treatment for both alcohol dependency and mental health problems.

The case has raised concerns about online hate speech and the safety of public figures, especially women and minorities, who are often targets of such threats.

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