Policy Text
POLICY
177.0HATE CRIMES
REVISED: 11/2011 RELATED POLICIES:
Reviewed by Chief David Magnusson
4/2019
A.PURPOSE
The purpose of this Policy is for the Police Department to take an active role in
promoting and protecting all citizens against racial, sexual orientation, religious and
ethnic intimidation and harassment.
B.POLICY
It is the Policy of the Police Department to take immediate action following a reported or
observed incident of a Hate Crime. Our efforts will be to emphasize victim assistance
and full cooperation whenever possible within our community.
C.OVERVIEW
The Florida Legislature passed two statutes that address prejudice motivated criminal acts
termed "Hate Crimes." The laws provide for increased criminal penalties by one degree
if classified as a “Hate Crime.”
D.DEFINITION
A Hate Crime is any criminal act or attempted criminal act by anyone against the person
or property of another, which constitutes an expression of hatred toward the victim
because of his/her race, color, religion, ethnicity, ancestry, sexual orientation, or national
origin.
E.CRITERIA FOR REPORTING HATE CRIME INCIDENTS
1.Any criminal action or attempt may be classified as a Hate Crime. A common
sense approach must be used if it appears an incident is motivated by prejudice, it
should be reported as such.
2.Examples of criminal acts which are directed at any racial, religious or ethnic
group include, but are not limited to:
a.Burning a cross or religious symbol;
b.Any symbols or oral language which has historically been directed against
any person because of their race, color, religious, ethnicity, or origin;
c.Any verbal or physical assault which is directed at a persons(s) because of
Hate Crimes definition;
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d.Possession of a firearm in proximity of a public demonstration of any
group meeting Hate Crime definition; and
e.Any crime that is directed at any Hate Crime defined person or group with
the apparent intention to:
(1).Harass;
(2).Intimidate;
(3).Threaten; or
(4).Retaliate
3.Reporting Procedures
a.Offense reports of any crime that is hate related will be noted by writing
(Hate Crime) next to report heading/title.
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