Two charged with hate crimes in Nova Scotia cross burning

Kentville - A Nova Scotia couple appeared in court Wednesday to get a first look at the culprits accused of burning a cross and uttering racial slurs on the interracial couple's front yard Sunday morning.

20 year old Nathan Rehberg and 19 year old Justin Rehberg walked into court today handcuffed together to face a judge in Kentville provincial court. They were arrested by the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and charged with public incitement of hatred, mischief and uttering threats in connection with the burning of a wooden cross on the lawn of a mixed-race Hants County, Nova Scotia couple, reports the Chronicle-Herald. The two men are brothers. The incident was reported by the homeowners, Shayne Howe and Michelle Lyon shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday morning said RCMP spokesperson, Sergeant Brigdit Leger in an interview with CanWest. Leger reportedly said it was out of character for something like this to happen in this area. "It's a strong community, a peaceful community. It's the first time we've had this kind of incident here." Warden Richard Dauphinee of the community of West Hants did confirm that the incident happened in his town. He called the perpetrators "sick individuals". Today's bail hearing was delayed until later this afternoon to allow defense lawyer, Brian Vardigans, to speak to his clients. Mr. Howe, one of the victims, was heard saying on his way out of the courtroom, "they better not make bail." Local news originally reported the couple were considering moving due to fears for their own safety, but help and support from the community has overwhelmed the victims. A FaceBook group showing Support for Shayne Howe and Michelle Lyon of Hants County, N.S. was set up and now has over 6,000 members.