Hate Crime
What is Hate Crime?
Hate crime is harassing, victimising, intimidating or abusing someone because of their race, faith, religion, disability or because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered.
If a hate crime is committed against a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered person it is sometimes known as a homophobic or transphobic crime.
A hate crime is defined as:
A crime where the perpetrator’s prejudice against any identifiable group of people is a factor in determining who is victimised.
We will treat all victims of crime in a professional and sensitive manner.
It is important that you report a hate crime because it doesn't just affect the victim, it can have an impact on entire communities.
A hate crime can include:
- Physical attacks
- Harassment
- Threats
- Disputes with your neighbors
- People swearing at you or making abusive remarks
- People doing things that frighten, intimidate or distress you
- Bullying at school, college or place of work
- Arson
- Spitting or making insulting gestures
How to report a Hate Crime
You can tell us about a Hate Crime in several ways:
- In an emergency call 999
- Visit your local "Police Station"
- Contact your Hate Crime Officer directly or call 0845 33 00 222
- Contact other reporting centre’s
Hate Crime Officers
Here at Hertfordshire we take hate crime very seriously and treat them as a priority when they are reported. Whatever you tell us is confidential. We have specially trained "Hate Crime Officers" who will help you understand what has happened to you. They can meet you in a place where you feel comfortable and safe. They will help you find a solution to your problem and explain your options.
They will help you if you need to make a statement or if you have to go to court.
Whatever you tell the Police about what happened to you or someone else will be treated in the strictest confidence.
The Police work closely with local authorities, other agencies and community groups to support victims of hate crime.
"Victim Support" is an independent charity which provides free and confidential support and information to help you deal with your experience.
Please click on the link if you would like to complete a Hate Crime reporting form on line