Canadian-Nigerian Faces Court Over Alleged Hate-Motivated Threats Against Nigerian Community

A Canadian-Nigerian woman, Amaka Sonnberger, is due to appear in court on Monday, 2 September 2024, following her arrest by Toronto Police for allegedly making hate-motivated threats against members of the Nigerian community.

Sonnberger, 46, has been charged with uttering threats and will stand before a judge at the Ontario Court of Justice. The arrest stems from an investigation initiated by the Toronto Police Service, which received a report on 28 August 2024 regarding a threatening incident.

Authorities allege that on or around 25 August 2024, Sonnberger posted online content threatening the lives of specific individuals within the Nigerian community.

In a statement titled “Suspected Hate-Motivated Threatening Investigation, Woman Arrested,” the Toronto Police Service confirmed the details of the case and the involvement of the Hate Crime Unit.

The statement outlined that Sonnberger was taken into custody on 1 September 2024 and is facing charges related to uttering threats. The case is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence, with the Hate Crime Unit actively participating in the investigation.

Toronto Police have urged anyone with further information to come forward, either by contacting the police directly at 416-808-3500 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.222tips.com.

The police statement also highlighted the legal implications of hate-motivated crimes, noting that such offences may involve consultation with the Crown. In cases where a person is charged and convicted, hate is considered an aggravating factor in sentencing. Charges related to hate speech, including the promotion of hatred or advocacy of genocide, require the consent of the Attorney General and are often subject to delays.

“When suspected hate-motivated offences are reported to police, the investigation may be led by a Divisional Investigator with the support of the Hate Crime Unit (HCU), or in some cases, will be investigated exclusively by the HCU,” the statement read.

It further explained that if a criminal offence is believed to have been motivated by bias, prejudice, or hate, it could influence sentencing.

Sonnberger’s court appearance is anticipated to draw significant attention, as the case underscores the seriousness with which Canadian authorities are addressing hate-motivated crimes in the country.