St. Catharines mayor ‘disgusted’ by alleged homophobic attack that sent man to hospital
Two suspects, a man and woman, have been charged in connection to an alleged attack outside of a St. Catharines bar that’s being investigated by Niagara Regional Police as a possible hate-motivated crime. Officers were called to the St. Paul and Bond streets area at around 8:50 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, for reports of […]
Two individuals, a man and a woman, have been charged in connection to an alleged homophobic attack outside a St. Catharines bar, according to officials. The incident occurred around 8:50 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, in the St. Paul and Bond streets area. A 25-year-old man from Welland sustained serious injuries during the assault, necessitating hospitalization.
Police are currently investigating the incident to determine if it was motivated by hate. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Unit has been informed of the event and will be working with the victim. If evidence confirms that hate was a motivation, it could be considered during sentencing.
St. Catharines Mayor, Mat Siscoe, expressed his disgust over the brutal attack, stating, "There is no excuse for this kind of violence. None. And targeting someone because of his sexual orientation is hatred; we must call it out and condemn it without hesitation." He emphasized that "no one should ever be afraid to walk our streets, hold their partner's hand, or simply be who they are."
Siscoe made it clear that "hate and intimidation directed at members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community have no place in St. Catharines. Full stop."
Two suspects, William Rider, 36, and Samantha Jacobs, 41, are currently held in custody in connection with the incident. Rider has been charged with aggravated assault, while Jacobs faces one count of assault causing bodily harm.
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