The Australian Federal Police launched an investigation into Ballesty in December after an online post in which he called for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to be kidnapped. A search of his home on Sydney's Northern Beaches uncovered Nazi paraphernalia, including a uniform and a copy of Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf, as well as electronic devices containing violent messages aimed at Mr Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. Investigators also found a recording of a video call in which he performed a Nazi salute.
Ballesty was sentenced to three years' imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 18 months backdated to January when he was first remanded. The sentence includes a mandatory minimum of 12 months for performing the salute—the first such penalty imposed under laws introduced in February 2025. He will be eligible for parole in May 2027.
Ballesty's parents provided a letter of support outlining his lifelong struggle with mental health issues and social isolation, describing him as a kind, gentle and empathetic person. They expressed regret that they had not been quicker to recognise the risks of his growing dependence on the internet. Ballesty himself wrote a letter admitting to serious errors and breaking the law, and apologised for causing offence. The court was also told he had embraced Christianity while in prison and was determined to live according to his faith.
Judge Mahony said that while he accepted Ballesty was remorseful, the testimonials about his character were difficult to reconcile with the nature of his crimes.