WINNIPEG—What looked like an anti-Semitic attack at a Winnipeg café that drew public concern and political condemnation was not a hate crime, but an alleged sham staged by owners of the business, police said Wednesday. Winnipeg police Chief Danny Smyth says he could not discuss a possible motive after the owners of BerMax Caffe and Bistro were charged with public mischief. “Last night, investigators formed the belief and came to the conclusion that the incident … was staged,” Winnipeg police Chief Danny Smyth said. As news of last week’s apparent attack spread, a GoFundMe page was set up to help the owners. All donors will be refunded.” The Jewish Federation of Winnipeg said it was “deeply disturbed” to learn of the police allegations.

Source: thestar April 24, 2019 20:26 UTC