Toronto police seeks suspects in hate-motivated mischief at west-end mosque

The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of a suspected hate-motivated mischief investigation following an incident at a local mosque.

On Sunday, May 8, 2022 at approximately 9:30 p.m., police responded to a call in the Sentinel Road and Finch Avenue West area.

It was reported that three males entered a Mosque. They were surprised to see people inside and hurried out. A man inside locked the doors after having seen the unknown males.

It is further reported that the males returned a short time later and began banging on the locked doors. They were heard yelling threatening comments to those inside

The three suspects have been described as:

#1 - approximately 15-18 year old male, white, and 5'2". He was last seen wearing a red hooded sweater, black pants, white shoes and black/white side bag. He also had a black mask / face covering.

#2 - approximately 15-18 year old male, light-skinned black, 5'2", thin build, with an afro-style hair. He was last seen wearing a black sweater, red baseball hat, black pants, shoes and had a black side bag.

#3 - approximately 15-18 year old male, black, and 5'2". He was last seen wearing a green hooded sweater, blue jeans and white shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.

According to Toronto Police Service:

When suspected hate-motivated offences are reported to police, the investigation will be led by a divisional investigator. The Hate Crime Unit will be made aware and specialized officers from that unit will support the investigation as needed."

"If it is alleged a criminal offence was committed (such as assault or mischief) and it is believed to have been motivated by bias, prejudice or hate, the officer-in-charge will consult with the Crown. If a person is charged and convicted of the offence, the Judge will take into consideration hate as an aggravating factor when imposing a sentence

Willful promotion of hatred and advocating genocide are hate propaganda (hate speech) offences which require the Attorney General's consent. Members of the Hate Crime Unit will provide assistance and support to the divisional investigators in seeking the Attorney General's consent to lay these charges, if applicable. These charges are often laid at a later time.