24-year-old Hamilton man charged with hate-motivated assault

A 24-year-old man is facing hate-motivated assault charges after he allegedly threatened someone with a knife inside a downtown Hamilton business on Saturday.

The incident happened around 8 a.m. in the area of Main St. and Wentworth St.

Officers were made aware of a disturbance inside a business in downtown. A man with a knife was reportedly threatening a customer.

The suspect attempted to flee but was later arrested by police after a short foot pursuit.

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Investigators believe that there may be more witnesses who saw or recorded the incident.

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

Anyone with information or video is encouraged to contact the Central Patrol Division Staff Sergeant at 905-546-4725.