Further to Media Release for Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Hate/Bias Incident Investigation – Update #3
A 31-year-old Peterborough man is facing two charges after incidents related to anti-Semitic flyers being distributed in neighbourhoods throughout Peterborough.
On Friday, September 15, 2023, after a four-month investigation, officers with the Investigative Services Unit conducted a search warrant of a residence and located items connected to the distribution of the flyers between May and July of 2023.
During the investigation, the suspect provided police with a false name and address.
As a result, a 31-year-old Peterborough man was arrested and charged with:
- Mischief - obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property
- Obstruct Peace Officer
The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court September 26, 2023.
The Peterborough Police Service is currently consulting with the Ministry of the Attorney General to have the incidents deemed as a willful promotion of hatred under the Criminal Code of Canada.
“I would like to thank the investigators and officers involved in this investigation. There is no room for hate in our community. It was important to do a thorough investigation into the origin of this disturbing material and speaks to our continued commitment to public safety.” - Chief Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Service.
Original Releases:
https://www.peterboroughpolice.com/en/news/further-to-media-release-for-tuesday-july-4-2023.aspx
Background
Consultation With Crown Attorney and Consent from The Attorney General
Police must balance Constitutional Rights with the Criminal Code of Canada which makes investigations very complicated.
Before laying some Hate-Motivated or Bias-Motivated criminal charges under the Criminal Code of Canada, police are required to conduct an investigation and then turn the file over to the local Crown Attorney's Office and get consent from the Attorney General's Office.
The following is a list of Criminal Code Charges that require consent before charges are laid:
Section 318 - Advocating Genocide.
Section 319 (2) - Wilful Promotion of Hatred.
Further background from our colleagues at Peel Regional Police.
Sandra Dueck
Corporate Communication Coordinator
Peterborough Police Service
sdueck@peterborough.ca
705-876-1122 x217