York Region police are investigating another series of hate crimes in the Town of Georgina, with the latest incidents targeting Jews and homosexuals.
Nine vehicles parked in the driveways of six homes on Annshiela Drive were defaced with spray-painted symbols of swastikas, anti-Semitic comments and homosexual slurs.
One vehicle had its windows and lights broken, and items were stolen from two vehicles, police said.
The culprits also spray-painted doors and windows of several homes in the cottage country town, which is near Lake Simcoe.
The incidents occurred between 9 p.m. Tuesday and 4 a.m. Wednesday, police said.
Investigators from the hate crimes unit are asking for the public's help identifying the suspects.
The incidents come a day after advocates for the Chinese community urged police to classify a string of assaults on Asian-Canadians at Lake Simcoe as hate crimes.
In four separate incidents over the last few months, fishermen were pushed into the lake on the southern shore.
One man was left in critical condition after a car chase following one of the attacks, and fishing gear was reportedly stolen or damaged during some of the assaults.
The Chinese Canadian National Council believes those victims were targeted because of their nationality.
Georgina Mayor Robert Grossi has condemned the recent incidents.
"We pride ourselves in living in a diverse and tolerant community," Grossi said in a news release on Friday. "It is unfortunate when the actions of an ignorant few undermine that mutual respect."
Police Chief Armand La Barge called the criminal acts "cowardly."
"These kinds of crimes are abhorrent and victimize the entire community," he said.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7341 or 7189.
Tips can also be made to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www.1800222tips.com.
