Police seek community help to stop hate crimes in Fort Erie, region
July 23, 2024 at 6:20 PM
Niagara Regional Police (NPRS) are stressing the importance of understanding and reporting hate crimes in Fort Erie and beyond.
A hate crime is a criminal act directed at a person or property, driven wholly or partially by hate, bias, or prejudice against a specific group.
These identifiable groups may be characterized by race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.
Almost any criminal offence can be influenced by hate. Examples of hate crime offences include acts of violence or hostility, such as assault (hitting or spitting on someone) or property damage.
The key element is that these actions intentionally target individuals or property based on the perpetrator’s animosity towards the “identifiable group.”
A hate incident, on the other hand, refers to non-criminal actions or behaviours motivated by hatred towards an identifiable group.
Examples of hate incidents include using racial slurs or insulting someone because of their ethnic or religious attire or identity. For instance, a neighbourhood dispute or a disagreement in a parking lot that escalates to verbal abuse and derogatory or racial slurs.
Though non-criminal, these incidents can be deeply harmful, causing emotional and psychological distress. Police respond to hate incidents by offering education, support, and community resources to help de-escalate and address the situation.
The police noted that it is “critically important to treat all victims and complainants of hate-motivated offences and incidents with respect and empathy to strengthen relationships and awareness between religions, cultures, and communities.”
To report a hate crime or hate incident in Fort Erie that is not an emergency, call (905) 871-2300.
NRPS suggests trying to remain calm while calling 911 and to attempt to call from a safe location.
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About The Author
Nick Fearns
Nick is a community journalist who has worked in Niagara and Macklin, Saskatchewan. He has a passion for local journalism and telling people's stories. Enjoys nature, history, and photography.
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