Police end investigation into 'defund the police' painting, say no charges will be laid

Hamilton police say they've identified a handful of people involved in shutting down Main Street West and painting DEFUND THE POLICE in massiveletters, but they will not face criminal charges.

About 100 people gathered outside of Hamilton City Hall on July 23 around 12:30 p.m., blocking off the road with their vehicles, and began to paint.

Police say the large, yellow letters, which covered three lanes, were made using household paint and tools.

Officials announced it would be removing the message that same afternoon, citing safety.

People have a right to protest,a media release from the city stated at the time, but"the paint used is household paint that will create slippery conditions impacting safe driving on the roadway."

Crews with power washers soon arrived and began blasting the letters off the road. The cleanup cost the city more than $5,000, according to police.

Investigators began a criminal investigation into theincident the next day and say they've identified five people with "varying levels of involvement."

However, policesays they'vedecided to "exercise discretion" and not proceed with charges, instead cautioning those they say were involved about the offence of mischief over $5,000.

"As a police service, we acknowledge the need for public engagement and dialogue on issues facing our community such as systemic racism and discrimination, as well as how police respond to homelessness, harm reduction and mental illness," the service stated in a media release.

"We recognize the right to lawful, peaceful assembly and protest. However, we remind the public that defacing public property is a criminal act and subject to charges."