The chief of Durham Region’s police service has expressed worry about a rise in hate-related incidents following two arrests made this week for separate alleged offences.
“Every individual in Durham Region deserves to feel safe, respected, and free from hatred and discrimination,” Chief Peter Moreira said in a statement posted on social media platform X.
On Monday, officers took a man into custody who allegedly threatened on an online message board to carry out a shooting at a synagogue in the area. Alexander Parfitt, 19, from Whitby, has been charged with threats motivated by hate, according to police in a news release. He was held for a bail hearing.
The police hate crimes unit got information about the posts from an external law enforcement partner and arrested the suspect on Saturday, the release stated.
On Wednesday, another man was arrested after he allegedly spread anti-Muslim hatred online, as per a different news release. Sean Farro, 57, from Whitby, faced charges related to offences motivated by hatred – uttering threats and inciting hatred in public places. He was also held for a bail hearing.
Police noted that the accused “willfully incited violence and harm against the Muslim community on social media platforms.”
Anyone who has information about either incident is encouraged to reach out to the police.
Moreira mentioned Thursday that the service is collaborating with policing partners and community leaders while offering support to those affected.
He added that they will “share information publicly when appropriate,” he stated.
“While we cannot always share details of active investigations, our commitment remains unwavering: to protect the safety and well-being of all residents and to hold those responsible for criminal acts accountable,” he said.
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