Charges laid for hate crimes

A man has been arrested and charged following an investigation into six antisemitic graffiti messages found in Halifax over the weekend.

Gezim Topalli, 31, was arrested at his residence in Halifax yesterday. He will appear in Halifax provincial court today to face charges of:

-Mischief related to religious property (x3)

-Property damage (x3)

-Public Incitement of Hatred (x1)

"I am pleased with the outcome of this investigation. While I credit the quick and thorough work of HRP's hate crime investigator, I also want to thank the public who came forward to help identify the suspect," said Chief Don MacLean. "The swift and seamless collaboration between police and the community represents our city taking a strong and unified stance against the promotion of hatred."

Anyone exposed to behaviour that is offensive, threatening or intimidating is encouraged to report it to police at 902-490-5020. Even if the investigation does not find criminal wrongdoing, it is important to have it on record.

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