WARNING: This story contains an image of a swastika.

The owners of a home where a swastika was mowed into the front lawn earlier this month now face charges of criminal harassment and inciting hate, Ontario Provincial Police say. 

Neighbours on Centennial Avenue in Central Elgin, on the eastern-most edge of St. Thomas, said the large Nazi symbol was cut into the lawn around Sept. 11, and it took up the entire length and width of the brick bungalow’s lawn. 

The swastika was removed earlier this week, neighbours told CBC News, days after OPP officers were were called to the home on Sept. 12 to investigate a “neighbour dispute.” 

As a result, they searched the home and charged Timothy Van Sickle, 37, and Julia Majkutewicz, 40, with: 

Public incitement of hatred. Criminal harassment — beset and watch. Criminal harassment — repeatedly communicate. Two counts of mischief for obstructing or interfering with the lawful use or enjoyment of a property. 

The accused were held for bail and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in St. Thomas at a later date, police said. 

WATCH | Home in southwestern Ontario where the symbol was carved into the lawn:

Swastika mowed into front lawn of home in Elgin County

Provincial police officers are investigating complaints from neighbours after a large Nazi symbol was carved into the front lawn of a home on the eastern edge of St. Thomas.

The two accused are listed as the owners of the home, according to documents obtained by CBC News. Property records show they bought it in November 2024 for $620,000.

A doormat in front of the home reads “Come back with a warrant” and a Facebook page associated with the name Timothy Van Sickle, since taken down, included a picture of that doormat and mentioned a dispute with a neighbour. Other photos of the Facebook page showed Nazi symbols, including swastikas and references to Adolf Hitler. 

Provincial police declined to discuss their investigation, but said they are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in Ontario, “regardless of their race (real or perceived), ancestry, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, gender, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation or any other similar factor. Hate has no place in our communities will not be tolerated.”