Police Arrest Four in Mischief Investigation

On the 28th of May 2026, Smiths Falls Police Service initiated an investigation into the hate related mischief at the Town Hall band stand and the Pride crosswalk at Beckwith St N and Church St W. Through assistance of security surveillance footage, investigating officers were able to identify 4 suspects.

On the 29th of May 2026, one of the suspects surrendered to police without incident. An 18- year-old Carleton Place resident, James PARENT, was charged with one count of hate related mischief over $5,000. The accused was later released from custody on conditions and provided with a future court date. 

On the 1st of June 2026, the second suspect surrendered to police without incident. An 18-year-old Perth resident, Adam LOUCKS, was charged with one count of hate related mischief over $5,000. The accused was later released from custody on conditions and provided with a future court date. 

On the 2nd of June 2026, the third suspect surrendered to police without incident. An 18-year-old Carleton Place resident, Chase METCALFE, was charged with one count of hate related mischief over $5,000. The accused was later released from custody on conditions and provided with a future court date. 

On the 3rd of June 2026, the fourth suspect surrendered to police without incident. An 18-year-old Ashton resident, Tracker HUGHES, was charged with one count of hate related mischief over $5,000. The accused was later released from custody on conditions and provided with a future court date. 

“Our officers responded within 2 minutes of the call leaving another incident after a caller noticed males defacing the town hall gazebo.  Our officers worked quickly and diligently to find the males responsible for this hateful graffiti after they fled the area.   I want to make it clear that anyone who wishes to come to this town to destroy or deface any structures or cross walks, we won’t let you get away with it. I understand one of the males already wishes to make amends which is a positive first step.  As it goes through the court process, I am hopeful for accountability, restitution and restorative justice for them to understand the impact this has on individuals living here and those who must repair or clean the graffiti. I’m thankful for Public Works and parks staff for cleaning this up quickly.” Chief Jodi Empey

“We support the Chief and her team to hold folks accountable. Any act of hate makes our community unsafe and accountability is critical. See it name it change it.” Erin Lee Executive Director of Lanark County Interval House.

The charges in these matters have not been proven in court.

The Smiths Falls Police Service urges anyone with information regarding this incident, or similar incidents, to contact our service at 613-283-0357. Information may also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).