The number of cases involving stolen or damaged Pride flags in Norwich Township is on the rise, with Oxford County OPP now looking into seven incidents that have been reported since early June.
Authorities mentioned that five additional thefts took place between June 5 and June 8 across several locations, including a school on Old Stage Road, a church on Main Street West, which was hit twice, and two private residences.
“Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding these incidents and are working to identify those responsible,” police said in a statement. “Residents and businesses in the area are asked to review any available surveillance during the noted timeframes and report anything that may assist investigators.”
The recent thefts follow two earlier incidents at Emily Stowe Public School on June 1, where a Pride flag was taken from the school’s flagpole and set ablaze, and on June 6 when the pole itself was cut down along with the Pride flag.
Police haven’t disclosed which school and church were involved in the five new cases, but the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) confirmed that East Oxford Central Public School on Old Stage Road has faced vandalism concerning its Pride flag this year.
“When things like this happen, and symbols of inclusion are targeted, it can affect not just the entire community of Norwich; it also goes further,” said OPP Const. Randi Crawford.
“We just want everyone to know that we take these [incidents] very seriously with Oxford OPP, and we remain dedicated to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of all residents.”
Crawford mentioned that police suspect youth might be involved in at least five out of seven Norwich incidents. Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, this limits what can be made public regarding details such as surveillance camera images.
The two incidents at Emily Stowe Public School are thought to involve the same two suspects, according to Crawford, who noted this is something police are working to verify. Three individuals are being sought regarding thefts at two homes and during another church incident.
“The first incident [at] the church as well as another school incident don’t have any footage available right now for us to identify those individuals,” Crawford stated about East Oxford Central Public School.
In a statement released last week, Norwich Mayor Jim Palmer condemned these acts of vandalism.
“The Township is committed to encouraging a welcoming community where all our residents and visitors treat each other with respect and dignity.”
