‘Hate-filled’ graffiti found on wall of Stoney Creek elementary school

Graffiti of hateful symbols was found on the wall of an elementary school in Stoney Creek over the weekend.

Hamilton police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the graffiti on an outside wall of St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School, located at 80 Colcrest St. Reports say the graffiti images depicted a swastika and homophobic slur.

Police say they are considering the incident to be a hate crime.

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Patrick Daly, chairperson of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, said in an email that the markings were removed on Sunday.

“We were sickened and saddened to see such despicable and hate-filled graffiti painted on the walls of one of our schools,” Daly said.

He added that he hopes those responsible are apprehended for their reprehensible acts.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward and contact the Hate Crime Unit at 905-546-5511.

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

Hate crimes can be reported online, by phone at 905-546-4925 or in person at any Hamilton police station.

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