Man charged after Toronto councillor targeted by antisemitic threats, police say

A man has been charged after allegedly making antisemitic threats targeting a Toronto city councillor.

In a news release Tuesday, Toronto police said a 64-year-old Markham man contacted the constituency office of a city councillor on March 9. He allegedly made several antisemitic and threatening comments directed at the councillor's office, they said.

The accused has been charged with uttering threats, indecent communication and criminal harassment. Police say they are investigating the incident as hate-motivated.

Coun. James Pasternak, who represents York Centre, Ward 6, confirmed to CBC Toronto that his office was the target of antisemitic threats.

Pasternak says about two weeks ago, his office received a "highly offensive" and "hateful" voicemail that was reported to police.

"When we see this kind of behaviour, it is frustrating [and] it's upsetting," Pasternak said, adding that the man charged took issue with his comments on a protest outside a Thornhill synagogue earlier this month.

"I believe he took exception to that," he said.

Pasternak said he could not go into detail about what was said in the voicemail, saying the case is now before the courts.

"I think this is an important message that intimidation, bullying and hate in this city is unacceptable."

The accused is due to appear in court on April 22, police said.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact investigators.