Red Deer RCMP have identified the suspect who was caught on camera writing a hate message in the snow outside the Red Deer Islamic Center the morning of Feb. 9th, after a youth turned himself in to police several days later.

Red Deer RCMP are working with the youth, his family and the Red Deer Islamic Center to resolve the incident through restorative justice means, which includes a meeting between the youth and staff at the Islamic Centre.

The John Howard Society will work with the group to facilitate the process, in keeping with their mandate to promote community harmony through advocacy, prevention and re-integration of offenders through the restorative process. After investigating the incident thoroughly and determining the wishes of the Islamic Center staff, RCMP are not laying charges in this incident.

“The youth has expressed sincere remorse for hurting others through thoughtless statements that were made on impulse, and has expressed a desire to reach out to members of the Islamic Center. They, in turn, welcome the opportunity to turn this into a learning conversation where mutual understanding can flourish,” says Cpl. Karyn Kay of the Red Deer RCMP. “In our view, the best outcome for this file is to develop a positive change in understanding and in behaviour through relationships and education rather than pursuing a criminal charge.”

Red Deer RCMP will not be commenting further on this incident to maintain the privacy of the youth and his family while they work through the restorative justice process.

– Fawcett