Police investigating after swastika burned into grass at Whitby park, councillor condemns act

The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is investigating and seeking witnesses after a swastika was found burned into the grass at a park in Whitby.

DRPS officers were called to Prince of Wales Park at 250 Prince of Wales Dr. at around 10 p.m. on Aug. 9 following reports that a soccer field had been damaged.

Officers arrived and discovered a partially-drawn anti-Semitic symbol which had been burned into the grass. Police said a blue container was also found left behind.

On Thursday, DRPS updated the investigation by saying officers have since determined that the container was a Swish Brite product containing 12 per cent sodium hypochlorite, commonly used as an industrial cleaner or pH balancer.

Authorities are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Whitby mayor, councillor, speaks out

Following news of the incident, Councillor Chris Leahy issued a statement urging Whitby residents to be vigilant about hate crimes and vandalism.

“Whitby is not the place you expect to see that type of hateful message. When I heard about this incident, I called city staff, but I also called B’nai Brith to report it,” Leahy said.

The Whitby councillor noted that city staff plough over the ground of the soccer field to make way for reseeding and laid down fresh sod.

“I will be bringing forward a motion for our next council meeting condemning this crime and vandalism. I have a message for those who hate: you are not welcome in Whitby,” Leahy added.

Whitby’s Mayor, Elizabeth Roy, also spoke out in the aftermath of the incident.

“The Town of Whitby embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strive to make our town a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging and safety,” read Roy’s statement. “This incident is an attack on the values that define us as a community and will not be tolerated.”

Roy added that it is “critical that we stand united as a community against all forms of hate and intolerance.”