No jail for man who unleashed racist tirade on grieving teens

A South Australian man has avoided jail after a racist tirade against a group of young men mourning the death of a friend last year. 

In December last year, John Burns approached the group at a beach in Glenelg, South Australia, where their 16-year-old friend, Elias Nimbona, had just drowned.

In video evidence exclusively obtained by 9NEWS, the 32-year-old is seen hurling racist taunts at the group of boys while paramedics move Mr Nimbona’s body into the

back of an ambulance.

“Look at you, you’re all ****** weak. You’re weak ***** dogs - ****** black *****,” Burns yelled at the group.

Documents revealed Burns then armed himself with a knife after the attack, claiming he felt frightened.

Today, Burns showed up at Port Adelaide Magistrates Court late to find out if he was going to jail. 

His legal team asked for leniency because Burns apparently didn’t take his medication for a mental condition on the day of the incident.

The court also heard that Burns has a lengthy history of violent offences and disorderly behaviour.

The magistrate warned him if he continues to misbehave and can’t manage his health issues, he will face jail.

Burns was handed a five-day suspended sentence and a six-month good behaviour bond on the condition he abide by the ruling.

Instead, Burns walked out of the court building with a smug grin. He then lashed out at a 9NEWS reporter yelling “Go report on ******* real news, you ******* dog.”