During October 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service responded to several reports of suspected hate-motivated crimes. Reports have included incidents of property damage and, most recently, a shooting within a residential neighbourhood.
There are four offences in the Criminal Code of Canada that specifically pertain to hate; they fall under the Hate-Propaganda section, and they are as follows:
1) Advocating Genocide
2) Public Incitement of Hatred
3) Wilful Promotion of Hatred
4) Mischief relating to religious property, educational institutions, etc.
Where a criminal code offence has been committed and there is evidence it was motivated by hate or bias towards an identifiable group (e.g. race, nationality, ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, etc.), the court may impose a greater punishment.
Investigations involving these crimes can be complex, and it's important the public understand this complicated and sometimes confusing topic.
Mischief to Property C23-246306 R23-53232 R23-53235 C23-248394
Between October 7 and 8, 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service received multiple reports of eggs thrown at the doors of residences in the city's southwest area.
Suspicious Circumstances C23-248394
On October 12, 2023, officers responded to a parking lot in the 100 block of Harrow Street for the report of a vandalized religious item. The damaged item was unattended when officers arrived.
Mischief to Property C23-30792
On October 13, 2023, a report was received regarding graffiti spray painted on a shed in close proximity to a school and place of worship in the River Heights area. Area residents observed the concerning graffiti.
Suspicious Activity R23-54375 R23-55572 C23-254439 R23-56162
Between October 15 and October 24, 2023, multiple racially motivated social media posts were reported to police.
Shooting Investigation C23-256547
On October 22, 2023, at approximately 4:30 a.m., residents of a River Heights neighbourhood heard the smashing of the front window of their home. It became apparent that the window had been shot out, and police were contacted. None of the residents were injured, and no suspect information is available at this time.
The residence had a visible religious symbol near the home's front door, and the crime is being investigated as suspected hate-motivated.
The Major Crimes Unit's Hate Crimes investigators are continuing this investigation.
Anyone with information regarding this incident or wishing to speak to an investigator in Major Crimes/Hate Crimes is asked to call 204-986-6219. If you require immediate police assistance, call 911.
Hate crimes have no place in our community.
We remain committed to investigating suspected hate-motivated crimes under the provisions of the Criminal Code of Canada.
Reports can be made by calling:
- 9-1-1 in an emergency
- 204-986-6222 for non-emergencies
- (204) 786-8477 to leave an anonymous tip through Winnipeg Crime Stoppers
From an investigative perspective, any reports of suspicious behaviour, mischief, or acts of violence which may be hate-related will be immediately flagged for our Major Crimes Unit to investigate.
The Winnipeg Police Service continues to be vigilant when responding to any calls for Service or critical incidents concerning this ongoing conflict. The conflict may be occurring on the other side of the world; however, its impact is far-reaching.
A Message Regarding Upcoming Demonstrations
Counter-protests produce conditions that significantly impact the risk to the community. It is causing increased tension between the parties, potential for acts of violence and mischief, and a significant demand on our resources.
The Winnipeg Police Service is not asking the community to refrain from peaceful, lawful assembly. We ask that those who have countering views to a planned event do so at a different time and location.