Waterloo Regional Police have charged a youth in connection to a hate-motivated assault in Waterloo.

On October 6, 2024, at approximately 8 p.m., police responded to a report of an assault at a residence in the area of Churchill Street and Amos Avenue.

The victim was walking her dog outside in her backyard when an object was tossed over the fence and struck her dog.

When the victim went to see who had thrown the object, two youths yelled derogatory identity-based comments towards her, and slapped and spat on her.

As a result of the investigation, a 12-year-old youth was arrested and charged with assault.

The other suspect, a nine-year-old youth, received a diversion.