Man facing antisemitism charges accused of breaching release order: P.E.I. RCMP

A sign for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is pictured on June 23, 2025. (CTV Atlantic / Avery MacRae)

A 25-year-old man facing hate crime charges is now accused of breaching his release order, according to a P.E.I. RCMP news release.

Police learned Matthan Runighan allegedly posted on social media in a manner contrary to his release order on Thursday. Officers found and arrested Runighan in Donaldston, according to the news release.

Last year, police say they received multiple complaints about alleged antisemitic social media posts by Runighan.

“During that investigation, police also learned that Mr. Runighan had obtained a firearm unlawfully,” the release says. “On August 7, 2025, he was arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm, and a public safety warrant was executed at his residence. Police seized a 12‑gauge shotgun and ammunition.”

Runighan was charged with:

• possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace
• improper storage of a firearm
• possession of a firearm without a licence
• possession of a non-restricted firearm without a licence

Police say Runighan was released on conditions, which he allegedly breached in August, September and October. Police say they arrested him again for posting hate content online on Oct. 10.

Following a further investigation, Runighan was charged with public promotion of hatred toward Jews and wilful promotion of antisemitism on Dec. 23.

Runighan is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

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