Hamilton Police have charged a Hamilton male after an incident at the Downtown Hamilton Mosque.
On June 14, 2024, at approximately 12:40 p.m., officers were dispatched to the mosque for a trespasser that had entered the building. The male entered through an insecure door and made his way to a classroom with a teacher and students. He then proceeded to make hate-related comments. Upon leaving the building, the male ripped up an English copy of the Quran that he brought with him.
Based on the available information at the time, the individual was removed from the property. Upon further investigation, video evidence and witness statements provided police with reasonable grounds to arrest and charge 54-year-old Wayne Voorthuyzen from Hamilton with criminal harassment.
This incident has been classified as a hate crime based on Voorthuyzen’s statements and actions.
Hamilton Police Service stands with and supports the Muslim community in denouncing Islamophobia. Incidents of this nature create fear and question the sense of belonging for diverse communities. We appreciate the impact this incident had on the community, especially those directly involved in the incident.
Hamilton Police increased presence at the mosque over the weekend and have been working collaboratively with the mosque’s administration to assure the community of their safety.
Hate crime in Hamilton is not acceptable. Left unchecked, hate crime can have a far reaching impact on communities. Hate crimes can be reported online at www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca. Reporting hate/bias incidents can also be reported on the phone at 905-546-4925 or in person at any Hamilton Police station.