UPDATE #1 - Police are Looking for Witnesses after Damage to Whitby Park

Police have identified the product used in this incident and are appealing to witnesses for information.

On Friday, August 9, 2024, at approximately 10:00 p.m., members from Central West Division were called to Prince of Wales Park, located at 250 Prince of Wales Drive, following reports of damage to the soccer field.  Officers arrived and located a partially drawn anti-Semitic symbol which had been burned into the grass.  A blue container was left behind in the field.   

Investigators have determined this blue container is a Swish Brite product which contained 12% sodium hypochlorite (typically used as a powerful industrial cleaner or pH balancer).  Police are requesting any residents who normally use this product to check and see if this item is missing or has been stolen from their property.

Anyone with cellphone, dashcam, surveillance footage or information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Trafford or D/Cst. Roffey of Central West Criminal Investigation Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1877 or 1831.

DRPS works with its Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC) to address challenges impacting the diverse communities of the Durham Region. The citizens appointed to the committee serve as a consultative and advisory body to the Office of the Chief of Police.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

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ORIGINAL RELEASE SENT ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2024

SUBJECT: Police are Looking for Witnesses after Damage to Whitby Park