Amaka Sonnberger, a Canadian- Nigerian woman, is set to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on Monday, September 2, 2024, following her arrest by Toronto Police on charges related to hate- motivated threats allegedly directed at members of the Nigerian community. Sonnberger, 46, faces charges of uttering threats, with the case being closely monitored by the Toronto Police Hate Crime Unit.

The arrest stems from an investigation initiated after authorities received a report on August 28, 2024, regarding a threatening incident. According to the Toronto Police, Sonnberger is accused of posting online content on or around August 25, 2024, that specifically threatened the lives of certain individuals within the Nigerian community in Toronto.

In a formal statement titled " Suspected Hate- Motivated Threatening Investigation, Woman Arrested, " the Toronto Police Service outlined the details of the case and the subsequent arrest. The statement emphasized the gravity of the allegations, noting that the investigation is being treated as a suspected hate- motivated offense, with the Hate Crime Unit playing a significant role in the inquiry.

The police statement provided further context, explaining that hate- motivated crimes often require thorough consultation with the Crown. If a suspect is convicted of such crimes, hate is considered an aggravating factor during sentencing, potentially leading to harsher penalties. The statement also highlighted the complexities involved in prosecuting hate speech- related offenses, such as promoting hatred or advocating genocide, which necessitate the consent of the Attorney General and may result in delays in laying charges.