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The Toronto Police Service said its hate crime unit is leading the case.
By Shula Rosen
Toronto police are searching for a suspect who removed about 20 mezuzahs from the doorframes of apartments in a seniors residence early Sunday, prompting a hate-motivated theft investigation and calls from local officials for public assistance.
Officers were dispatched just after 10:25 a.m. to the Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West area, where residents reported that religious items affixed to their doors had been taken.
Police said each complaint involved the disappearance of a mezuzah, a small case containing a parchment scroll traditionally hung by Jewish families at their entrances.
The thefts occurred inside a building located at 6250 Bathurst St., which serves a predominantly Jewish senior population.
The Toronto Police Service said its hate crime unit is leading the case.
Investigators are seeking video, witness accounts, or any information that might help identify the person responsible.
The service noted that when officers believe an offence was driven by hatred or prejudice, prosecutors may be consulted, and courts may weigh those motives during sentencing if charges lead to a conviction.
City Councilor James Pasternak, who represents the neighborhood, wrote in a statement that the break-ins target a vulnerable community and must not be ignored.
He called the incident “an act of hate directed at Jewish residents” and said the thefts have left seniors feeling threatened in their own hallways.
“There is no excuse for targeting people because they are Jewish,” he posted, adding that he has spoken with the building’s rabbi and that local police division staff are engaged with residents.
Authorities said roughly 20 mezuzahs have been reported missing so far. Police asked anyone with tips to contact 32 Division or reach Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS or through its online portal.
Hate-propaganda offences such as promoting hatred or advocating genocide require approval from the Attorney General and are sometimes pursued after additional evidence is gathered, the service noted.
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