An alleged assault on a delivery driver at a Clarington McDonald’s last Saturday night may have been motivated by “hate,” say police, who are currently consulting with Crown prosecutors about the matter.

Around 9:30 PM on Saturday, Nov. 1, Durham Police were called to a McDonald’s on Regional Highway 2 after a man allegedly made “hateful comments” toward a delivery driver picking up food from the restaurant.

After a “verbal altercation,” police say the man assaulted the delivery driver, who sustained minor injuries.

Police arrived shortly after and arrested 41-year-old Aaron William Lee, who is charged with assault and uttering threats.

However, police may upgrade the charges if they determine that “hate was an aggravating factor in the assault.” They are currently consulting with the Crown Attorney’s Office about the matter.

“If a crime is motivated by hate, that factor can be considered during sentencing to increase the severity of the penalty,” police said.

Lee was held for a bail hearing after his arrest.

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