Any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate and bias and designed to infringe upon the rights of individuals should be viewed very seriously by law enforcement agencies and should be given high priority. Agencies should employ all necessary resources and vigorous law enforcement action to identify and arrest hate crime perpetrators. Also, recognizing the particular fears and distress typically suffered by victims, the potential for reprisal and escalation of violence, and the far-reaching negative consequences of these crimes on the community, agencies should be mindful of and responsive to the security concerns of victims and their families.

These documents establish guidelines for identifying and investigating hate crimes and assisting victimized individuals and communities. A swift and strong response by law enforcement can help stabilize and calm the community as well as aid in a victim’s recovery.

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