Mike on Crime

By THE CANADIAN PRESS

HALIFAX, N.S. – The Canadian Jewish Congress is condemning what it calls an “outrageous attack” on a mixed-race couple who had a cross burned on the front lawn of their home in rural Nova Scotia.

In a news release, congress president Mark Freiman calls the incident the “embodiment of hate” and says it is a hate crime of serious magnitude.

Shayne Howe, who is black, and Michelle Lyon, who is white, live at a home in Newport with their five children, aged two to 17.

The couple told reporters they’re afraid for their safety and are considering moving in light of Sunday’s incident.

Jon Goldberg, executive director of the Atlantic Jewish Council, says the RCMP should pursue the potential hate crime aspect of the case should any charges be laid.

Police are looking for at least two suspects and are examining all possible motives, including whether it is a hate crime.