Check your state statutes for the definition of hate crime in your jurisdiction. Accurate and comprehensive police reporting is essential to understanding the prevalence and patterns of hate crimes both locally and nationally. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia require the collection of hate crime data. Families of victims often feel frustrated and powerless. Others in the community who share the victim's characteristics may feel victimized and vulnerable.
Hate incidents can escalate and prompt retaliatory action.
Hate crimes and hate incidents create communitywide unrest. A swift and strong response by law enforcement can help stabilize and calm the community as well as aid in a victim's recovery. Failure to respond to hate crimes within departmental guidelines may jeopardize public safety and leave officers and departments open to increased scrutiny and possible liability. They become crimes only when they directly incite perpetrators to commit violence against persons or property, or if they place a potential victim in reasonable fear of physical injury. Officers should thoroughly document evidence in all bias-motivated incidents.