Three people have been charged over the defacing of the Gisborne rainbow crossing.
Two men, aged 46 and 36, and a 45-year-old woman were charged with graffiti vandalism after the crossing was painted white on Monday night. A fourth suspect had been identified. Meanwhile, police are still asking for those responsible for a second rainbow crossing attack, on Auckland’s Karangahape Rd, to come forward.
“We consider that, on the face of it, the alleged offending is consistent with a hate crime, and we will seek to establish that as fact during the ongoing investigations and court proceedings,” said Inspector Danny Kirk, Tairāwhiti Area Commander.
“This incident has caused concern for many people in our diverse community and acts like this have no place here. Freedom of speech and the right to protest are fundamental principles of a free and democratic society under the rule of law. Sadly, a line has been crossed on this occasion.”