News Release
Man Arrested in Suspected Hate-Motivated Threatening Investigation,
Lawrence Avenue East and Pharmacy Avenue area
The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of an arrest made in a suspected Hate-Motivated Threatening investigation.
On Saturday, June 5, 2026, Toronto Police received a call for an Unknown Trouble in the Lawrence Avenue East and Pharmacy Avenue area.
It is alleged that:
- the accused attended a business and uttered threats towards the victims whom he perceived to be Palestinian
- the suspect was in possession of a weapon at the time of the incident
Shafik Al Jawhari, 32, of Toronto, was arrested and charged with:
- two counts of Uttering Threats to Cause Death
- Assault with a Weapon
- Weapons Dangerous
- Fail to Comply Probation Order
He was scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on June 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., in room 107.
This investigation is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3500, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.
When suspected hate-motivated offences are reported to police, the investigation is led by the Hate Crime Unit (HCU).
If it is alleged a criminal offence was committed (such as assault or mischief) and it is believed to have been motivated by bias, prejudice or hate, the officer-in-charge may consult with the Crown. If a person is charged and convicted of the offence, the Judge will take into consideration hate as an aggravating factor when imposing a sentence.
Wilful promotion of hatred and advocating genocide are hate propaganda (hate speech) offences which require the Attorney General’s consent to lay charges. These charges are often laid at a later time.
