The appearance of a swastika - mowed into the front lawn of a St. Thomas area home - has sparked neighbourhood concern, political and cultural condemnation and police involvement. Two people are facing multiple counts, including one alleging the incitement of hatred. At a home on Centennial Line, freshly cut grass remained a day after neighbours stated police had a contractor mow over the symbol aligned with hate. Acting on complaints, OPP officers attended the Central Elgin residence, just on the border with St. Thomas. At least one neighbour reported the symbol had been there for over a week. On Monday, those who live nearby expressed outright disdain. “It’s disgusting,” said Dave Voeghtly, who was visibly upset as he added, “It should not happen. We should live peacefully.” The home has multiple ‘No Trespassing’ signs and wooden stakes advising a ‘wire fence’ around the perimeter. OPP have yet to comment on their investigation, beyond acknowledging the complaints and reaffirming a blanket pledge not to tolerate or condone acts of hate. Nearby neighbours telling CTV News they have “gone through hell” after several months of listening to antisemitic shouting and loud music. In St. Thomas court on Monday, Timothy Van Sickle and Julia Majkutewicz were remanded into custody on five counts. Most relate to alleged harassment and the playing of loud music. However, a sole count mentions the front yard and accuses the pair of inciting ‘hatred against an identifiable group.’ As the situation drew attention, political figures were asked to weigh in. Central Elgin Mayor Andrew Sloan declined an interview, citing the ongoing police investigation. However, St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston reacted to the sight of the symbol alone. He said, “This is not the type of behaviour acceptable in our community, and beyond,” while also adding, “It is a priority to keep our growing area welcoming.” Dean Lavi, the executive director of Jewish London, expressed stronger words. “This is one of the most recent manifestations of hate for Jewish people, antisemitism, and more broadly, hate in general. It doesn’t get much clearer than a swastika cut into a lawn of grass.” An action Voeghtly hopes he will never see again. “I don’t understand, but that’s the way society is,” he expressed, as he continued walking his dog. The charges against Van Sickle and Majkutwicz have not been proven in court.
