Investigators with the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau and the Hate Crime Unit are seeking suspects and witnesses after a religious statue was damaged with hate-motivated graffiti at a Richmond Hill temple yesterday.
Police received reports that a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at a Hindu temple at Yonge Street and Garden Avenue had been vandalized on Wednesday, July 13 at approximately 12:30 p.m.
Officers found that hateful graffiti had been spray painted on the statue, according to a York Regional Police news release.
The investigation is ongoing and is being investigated as a hate-motivated incident, police said.
Investigators are asking any witnesses, anyone with information or video surveillance footage in that area to come forward.
York Regional Police recognizes the community-wide impact of hate crimes and vigorously investigates all occurrences of hate crime and hate bias incidents, police said.
“We are committed to ensuring that all citizens feel that they belong and are part of an inclusive, welcoming community,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “We will not tolerate hate in any form. Specially trained hate crime investigators are involved and this incident is being investigated thoroughly.”
Anyone with information can contact the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigation Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7241, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
