On November 21, 2021, shortly after 12:00 p.m., a group of approximately one hundred and seventy five people attended the area of Federal Building located at 55 Bay Street North in the City of Hamilton. The group closed the street and some participants proceeded to paint the words “All OUT FOR WEDZINKWA” on the roadway using household paint and tools.

Upon completion, the City of Hamilton cleaned 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 was under $5000.

Hamilton Police Service have started a criminal investigation into the incident. At this time, one person has been identified and arrested in relation to the criminal code offence of Mischief Under $5000, contrary to Section 430(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

As a police service, we acknowledge the need for public engagement and dialogue on issues facing our community such as systemic racism and discrimination. 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.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with this investigation, you are asked to contact Detective Higginbottom at (905) 546-3816 or Det/Sgt David Oleniuk at (905) 546-3833.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit an anonymous tip online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com