The RCMP say a Quebec man has been charged in connection to alleged online threats made against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Muslim community.
André Audet, 62, appeared at a courthouse in Longueuil, Que., on Jan. 9 in connection with two charges – public incitement of hatred and willful promotion of hatred.
Charges filed at the courthouse say both alleged crimes occurred between Jan. 1 and Oct. 22, 2019 – the day after last year’s federal election.
In an e-mailed statement, the RCMP say the investigation was carried out by the force’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team. Given a rise in online threats, the RCMP say it has focused resources on online surveillance and investigators are now better able to identify and deal with threats made on the web.
Spokeswoman Corporal Mélanie Cappiello-Stébenne says in an e-mail that the force takes all threats seriously and violent comments are not tolerated.
“Individuals who write such comments are liable to severe penalties,” Ms. Cappiello-Stébenne wrote. “Although the individuals being investigated may not have been in direct contact with the persons or groups they targeted, their comments are just as worrisome and could lead to acts of violence.”
According to court filings, Mr. Audet, of Boucherville, Que., had been given a summons to appear in court on Dec. 19.
The Prime Minister’s Office declined to comment on the charges.
“We never comment on matters relating to the prime minister’s security,” said spokeswoman Eleanore Catenaro in an e-mail. Mr. Audet returns to court on Mar. 24.
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