Since the beginning of October racist messages promoting white supremacy have been appearing around Brooks. RCMP are seeking any information on the person or group of people behind the hate crimes.--HANDOUT PHOTO
bmiller@medicinehatnews.com
Brooks RCMP are asking residents for help in identifying those responsible for nine incidents of vandalism on city-owned infrastructure depicting racist and hateful messages surrounding anti-immigration and white supremacy.
RCMP have shared photos showing spray-painted swastikas and other anti-immigrant messaging on public infrastructure and on traffic signs, first reported on Oct. 1.
Since that time, eight other locations have been vandalized, with the most recent report on Nov. 26.
Mounties say the areas hit were Uplands, the median of Cassels Road, the bathroom at Lake Stafford Park, the bathroom at Duke of Sutherland Park and on the back of a street sign on Sutherland Drive.
Additionally, city staff have reported that stickers and decals promoting the White Lives Matter movement are being placed all over the city, usually on traffic signs, and have prompted numerous complaints from the public.
“These acts target individuals and communities, and have no place in our city,” reads a press release. “We take every report seriously and our officers will conduct thorough investigations to ensure accountability and support those affected.”
Police are asking anyone with information regarding these crimes to contact the Brooks detachment at 403-794-4400, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
RCMP are “strongly” encouraging anyone who witnesses or experiences a hate-motivated crime to report it to police.
