Temiskaming Ontario Provincial Police say they are investigating the discovery of offensive graffiti in Temiskaming Shores as a possible hate crime. The graffiti was discovered Sept. 24. “Police received a report of offensive graffiti painted on a wall in an alleyway near Whitewood Avenue,” the OPP said in a news release Oct. 1. “Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding this incident and the OPP hate crime extremism unit has been engaged.” Police said the graffiti targeted an identifiable group, but didn’t provide more details. Zero tolerance for hate “The OPP does not tolerate or condone acts of hate against a person or property based on race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion or religious dress, sex, age, mental or physical disability, or sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression,” police said. “The OPP continues to work with community partners to support those who are victimized by hate/bias-motivated incidents.” Investigators are asking anyone with information that may assist this investigation or who witnessed suspicious activity in the area to contact the Temiskaming OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.
