York police release video surveillance of suspect spray painting ‘Pepper Wok’ restaurant

York Regional police have released video surveillance of a suspect spray painting and vandalizing a restaurant in Richmond Hill.

On December 9, police were notified of offensive social media posts about the ‘Pepper Wok‘ on West Beaver Creek Road, at Highway 7.

Police said further investigation revealed ‘Pepper Wok‘ had posted a sign in its window referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, which has since been removed.

Sometime between 7 p.m. on December 9 and 10 a.m. the next morning, police allege someone vandalized the store-front with spray paint.

On Friday, investigators released video surveillance and an image of a suspect and are appealing to anyone with information on their identity to please come forward.

 

“As seen in the video the suspect spray paints the storefront, takes a picture, then drives away in a white vehicle,” Sergeant Andy Pattenden said.

“Investigators would also like to speak with the possible witness who can be seen in the video operating a snow-clearing vehicle.”

The suspect is described as male, last seen wearing black clothing with a black hat and a white mask. He was seen driving away from the seen in a white compact sport utility vehicle.

“York Regional Police does not tolerate hate crime in any form,” Pattenden said.

“Those who victimize individuals based on race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or mental or physical disability will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”