Photo:AP
In Kanata, Ottawa, a man in his 40s has been charged after using a paintball gun to shoot at his neighbour’s symbolic flag between June 10 and 17, 2025. Police say this was a hate-motivated incident.
The Ottawa Police Service’s Hate and Bias-Motivated Crime Unit led the investigation.
Surveillance and witness reports showed the man firing paintballs at the flag multiple times.
He faces several charges, including:
2 counts of harassment by threatening conduct
3 counts of mischief under $5,000 (for property damage).
Despite the seriousness, the man was released with conditions and will appear in court later.
Hate-motivated crimes target individuals or symbols based on identity or beliefs, compromising community safety.
Police stress that hate crimes are often underreported and encourage people to step forward if they’ve experienced or witnessed similar incidents.
Neighbours are shaken, as this was not random vandalism but repeated attacks on a symbolic item.
The police are reminding residents that respect and safety are essential in a respectful community.
Report suspicious acts—your tip can help police act quickly.
Document and protect property—take pictures of incidents and install lighting or cameras.
Talk and support neighbors—let people know such behaviour is unacceptable and that help is available.
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