Hamilton Police Service has concluded its investigation into the roadway painting that took place outside Hamilton City Hall in July. After conducting the investigation, Hamilton Police will not be proceeding with criminal charges against those responsible.

On July 23, 2020, shortly after 12:30 p.m., a group of approximately one hundred people attended the area of Main Street West in front of Hamilton City Hall. The group closed the street using their own vehicles for protection and some participants proceeded to paint the words Defund the Police on the roadway using household paint and tools.

Upon completion, the City of Hamilton used a private contractor to clean the paint from the roadway out of concern for public and traffic safety. The costs incurred by the City of Hamilton in relation to the clean up were in excess of $5000.

Hamilton Police Service began a criminal investigation into the incident on July 24, 2020. To date, we have identified five persons with varying levels of involvement.

At this time, we have chosen to exercise discretion in this matter and as such, the five individuals were cautioned in relation to the criminal code offence of Mischief over $5000, contrary to Section 430(3) of the Criminal Code.

As a police service, we acknowledge the need for public engagement and dialogue on issues facing our community such as systemic racism and discrimination, as well as how police respond to homelessness, harm reduction and mental illness. We recognize the right to lawful, peaceful assembly and protest. However, we remind the public that defacing public property is a criminal act and subject to charges.