Man caught ‘fornicating’ statue at war memorial

A man was arrested Sunday after being caught “fornicating ” a statue at the National War Memorial.

Ottawa police said Monday the 22-year-old had climbed the Sparks Street monument at about 11:30 p.m. on Sunday and, according to passersby, “began fornicating the statue.”

Witnesses noticed he was wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase, I Need a Drink.

The man was arrested at the scene after bystanders called police. He was held in custody overnight on a mischief charge and released after a brief court appearance on Monday. Police said they will continue to investigate the matter, and more charges are possible.

The monument honours the country’s war dead and holds the remains of the Unknown Soldier, returned from France in 2000.

One passerby, Michael Smith, described the young man’s behaviour as “extremely offensive, given what the memorial stands for.”

Minister of Veterans Affairs Erin O’Toole released a statement Monday night.

“It is disheartening that some people cannot respect the sacredness of the National War Memorial in our nation’s capital. It is encouraging that good citizens in Ottawa called the police when they witnessed this shameful behaviour and it is hoped the increased penalties for disgracing a cenotaph in Canada will send a message that this behaviour is deplorable. Lest we forget.”

Sunday’s incident is similar to one in 2006 when a group of young men were photographed urinating on the war memorial during Canada Day celebrations. Their actions sparked outrage across the country.

Anyone with information on Sunday’s incident is asked to contact police at 613-236-1222, ext. 5166, or Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477 or toll-free at 1-800-222-8477.