Pride flag stolen, flagpole cut down at Norwich school, OPP seek suspects

A Pride flag was stolen, and a metal flagpole was cut down at a Norwich elementary school over the weekend, just days after another Pride flag at the same school was allegedly removed and set on fire.

Oxford OPP said they were notified Sunday of vandalism and theft at Emily Stowe Public School on Jerdon Street in Norwich, Ont.

Two unknown suspects went to the school at approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, according to police. Investigators allege the pair cut down a metal flagpole, removed a recently replaced rainbow Pride flag and then fled the area toward Stover Street.

The incident comes one week after another Pride flag at the school was stolen and set on fire, prompting a separate OPP investigation. In that case, police said a Pride flag was removed from the school’s flagpole and burned during the overnight hours of June 1.

The suspects are described as white males in their late teens or early 20s.

One suspect is described as having a thin build and was wearing a light-coloured shirt, blue shorts and dark-coloured boots. The second suspect is also described as having a thin build and was wearing a light-coloured hat, a black T-shirt and blue pants.

In a statement sent to parents following the first incident last week, the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) said the flag is raised to support inclusivity.

“This action can cause real harm to members of our community, particularly those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. The Pride flag is a visible reminder that the 2SLGBTQIA+ identities are affirmed that belonging matters,” said TVDSB. “There is no place for hatred and discrimination in our school community.”

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident, including security camera or doorbell footage from the area, to contact the Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122.