Man Charged for Hate-Motivated Messages Spray-Painted on Richmond Hill Businesses
Man, 28, arrested for hate-motivated graffiti targeting Richmond Hill businesses, sparking community concern.
A 28-year-old man has been taken into custody following a disturbing string of hate-motivated vandalism incidents targeting Richmond Hill businesses. The suspect is accused of spray-painting anti-Iranian messages on the exterior walls of a grocery store and several other local establishments, prompting significant concern among residents and business owners.
The York Regional Police’s hate crime prevention unit commenced an investigation after officers responded to reports from a plaza near Yonge Street and 16th Avenue on Saturday. According to authorities, three separate businesses within the same shopping plaza discovered offensive graffiti emblazoned on their properties, all occurring within a short timeframe. In addition, a fourth act of vandalism was reported at a nearby bus terminal at Yonge Street and Highway 7, suggesting the incidents were part of a coordinated spree.
Police emphasized the serious nature of these incidents, noting that hate-motivated crimes threaten both community safety and the sense of belonging for targeted groups. The anti-Iranian messages reportedly sparked fear and outrage within the local Iranian-Canadian community and beyond.
The investigation quickly gained traction after media coverage brought the case to the public’s attention. A vigilant community member recognized the alleged perpetrator and contacted authorities, enabling officers to swiftly identify and apprehend the suspect.
Alexsandr Gavrutenko, 28, who police confirm does not have a fixed address, now faces multiple charges including four counts of mischief under $5,000, two counts of failure to comply with a probation order, and two counts of failure to comply with a court order. Officials noted that Gavrutenko was already on probation for unrelated charges at the time these latest offenses were committed.
York Regional Police continue their investigation and are urging anyone with additional information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to come forward. The incidents highlight the importance of community vigilance and prompt reporting in addressing acts of hate and maintaining public safety.
