This is awful!!
TORONTO - The lives of citizens exercising their democratic rights in the federal election are being put at risk in the Toronto riding of St. Paul's, said Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion and Liberal Candidate for the riding, Dr. Carolyn Bennett.
"There is no place for these types of dangerous and reckless intimidation tactics in our democracy," said Mr. Dion.
Residents of the riding have reported having had their cars' brake lines cut, their phone lines cut, and graffiti spray-painted on their homes. Others have also been targets of vandalism, including graffiti and damaged lawn signs. All victims were showing their support for Dr. Bennett, Liberal candidate and former Minister of State for Public Health, by posting signs on their yards.
"These attacks sicken me," said Dr. Bennett. "I've spent my life encouraging people to get involved in the democratic process and now it would appear they are targeted for doing so. If the attacks cannot be stopped, I will be working with my supporters to remove lawn signs and asking other candidates to do the same."
Toronto police are investigating the incidents.
"This is a danger to life as well as to property. Regardless of the motivation - and there appears to be a connection (to the signs) - this is a public safety issue," Staff Sergeant Shawn Meloche told the Toronto Star.
Yesterday the Bennett campaign team spent the day phoning their supporters warning them of the targeted attacks. Dr. Bennett recorded a voice mail message for all 973 households at risk.
"What is most upsetting is that this has happened only at homes with a Carolyn Bennett sign on their lawn," Dr. Bennett said in the message. "It is appalling to me that the citizens like you, those truly engaged in our democratic process, have been targeted."
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