Chatham-Kent police have arrested a 19-year-old who they allege committed crimes targeting the local Muslim community.
According to police, officers responded to hate-motivated incidents on Tuesday near Prince Street North in Chatham.
A Chatham man has been charged with two counts of assault with a weapon, three counts of uttering threats, three counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and mischief under $5,000.
After a court appearance on Wednesday, it was decided that the accused would stay in police custody until his next court date on August 7.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS) assured that these incidents are being taken very seriously and that the investigation is ongoing.
"We believe hate has no place in our community, and we recognize the lasting effects these events can have on everyone," a statement from CKPS said.
Police said they have been in contact with local Muslim community leaders to update them and offer support and are reminding the community that Chatham-Kent Victim Services can be reached at 519-436-6630. More information about victim services can be found here.
Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Mark VanderGriendt at 519-436-6600 ext. 80207 or markvan@chatham-kent.ca or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
