Warwickshire Chief Constable and Crime Commissioner join forces to tackle hate crimes

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAGTB) was marked yesterday (Sunday).

Chief Constable Martin Jelley said: “We are committed to tackling hate crime in all its forms; nobody should have to suffer victimisation because of who they are. We know that nationally hate crimes of all types are under-reported and I am urging anyone who has been a victim of such an offence to report it and ensure we can investigate and provide support.”

Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Ball said: “Hate crime is unacceptable and is treated with utmost seriousness and I am determined to make a stand against it in all forms. I’ve made it one of my priorities in the Police and Crime Plan and I have made significant funding available to tackle offenders. We know that hate crime is under-reported in Warwickshire, so I too would urge anyone who has been victimised because of who they are to come forward and get help and support.”

A hate crime is any criminal offence committed against a person or property that is motivated by an offender’s hostility or prejudice towards someone because of their: race or perceived race (including nationality, national origin, ethnic origin, race and colour), religion or perceived religion, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, disability or perceived disability, transgender or perceived transgender, individual characteristics that makes someone appear different e.g an alternative lifestyle, culture, physical appearance and style of dress.

Hate crimes can be reported online at True Vision at www.report-it.org.ukcall into a police station or stop a police officer in the street or via Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555111.

Victims can call Victim Support on 0845 30 30 900.