04/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/27/2024 14:45
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:
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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