Hate crimes have unique implications beyond the immediate victim and can affect people more profoundly than other crimes because they target and aim to devalue aspects of an individual’s identity.

The victims of hate crimes tend to experience psychological distress at a higher rate than victims of other crimes. Data show that victims of bias-motivated crimes are more likely to experience post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and other forms of emotional distress. Properly and compassionately investigating and responding to hate crimes is critical to creating and maintaining trust between law enforcement and communities.