Woman slapped, subjected to racial slurs in Hamilton; hate crime unit investigating

The police in Hamilton have arrested a 44-year-old man from the city for an alleged stranger assault against a woman. A hate crime unit is investigating the case to see if further charges are warranted.

Hamilton Police (HPS) state that shortly after 8 a.m today (Feb. 24), a 47-year-old woman was walking west on the south sidewalk on King St. W. when a male travelling in the opposite direction slapped her as they walked past one another. The male suspect and female victim do not know each other.

“The victim contacted police and provided a suspect description,” HPS says. “Shortly thereafter, police located and arrested the suspect. During the execution of the arrest, the accused uttered racial slurs directed at the victim to the officers.”

The man, whose name was not released, faces a charge of Assault Level One. The Hamilton Police Hate Crime Unit is reviewing the incident.

The HPS typically does not release the name of suspects who have been arrested and charged with crime until they have made their first court appearance.

Witnesses urged to come forward

The police media release expressed hope that witnesses to the incident will come forward. Members of the public may contact the HPS Division 1 patrol staff sergeant (905-546-4725). Information may also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-8477; crimestoppershamilton.com).

Hate crimes, or hate/bias incidents, can be reported online at hamiltonpolice.on.ca. They can also be reported in person at any Hamilton Police station or viav hone (905-546-4925).

“Hate crime in Hamilton is not acceptable,” HPS says. “Left unchecked, hate crime can have a far reaching impact on communities.”