Charges laid in Downtown hate related incidents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Saturday, April 27, 2024 4:15 pm

(Ottawa) - The Ottawa Police Service Hate and Bias Crime Unit and Central Criminal Investigation Section have charged an individual following a series of incidents in the Downtown area in April.

In the morning, the individual was taking part in a demonstration in the Downtown area. While police were attempting to effect a lawful arrest, the individual inserted herself into the situation, and in doing so physically assaulted one of the officers.

In the afternoon, the individual was taking part in another "pop-up" demonstration when the victim attempted to walk near the group of demonstrators to get to their destination, an argument ensued with the individual during which she assaulted the victim with a handheld sound amplifier. The individual then continued to verbally assault and impede the victim while they were attempting to walk away.

Finally in the evening hours, the accused followed a different victim from a religious event while shouting hateful messages and assaulting them with a handheld sound amplifier.

All victims sustained minor physical injuries.

Deana SHERIF, 47-years-old, of Ottawa, has been identified and charged with:

• Assault police officer with the intent to prevent an arrest
• Obstruct a peace officer in the execution of their duty
• Assault with a weapon x2
• Possession of a weapon dangerous to the public
• Harassment by threatening conduct; hate motivated x2
• Intimidation by disorderly following

She is expected to appear in court tomorrow.

We continue to encourage anyone who witnesses or experiences such incidents to report them to police. Reporting hate-motivated incidents is an important step in stopping cycles of hatred.

Anonymoustips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS).

Attending a demonstration in Ottawa? Freedom of expression has reasonable limits to protect citizens, property and businesses from disruptive or unlawful activities. Find out more at ottawapolice.ca.

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