Reply #86: You misunderstand the concept of "hate crime" [View All]

[TechBear_Seattle]

Hate crimes are actually two crimes: the actual action that occured, and a stated threat of further action against others who are or are perceived to be in the same group as the victim. The first is one or more specific acts, the second is terrorism. Hate crime sentencing enhancements are a penalty for that second crime.

An example: A black man is beaten up by white assailants. During the assault, the perpetrators make it clear that the victim was not some random joe but was picked specifically because of the color of his skin. The law states that there are two crimes here: the actual assault of the victim, and a clear threat of future violence against other African-Americans. Two crimes, two penalties.

Personally, I think the laws should be changed to become more inclusive. There should not be a list of communities who "qualify" for possible hate crime enhancement: Any criminal act which can be shown to be intended also as a terrorist threat against others in the victim's group, class or community should receive a hate crime enhancement.