If you believe you have been a victim of a hate crime, call 911 to contact the Chicago Police Department immediately! It is imperative that you tell the police why you feel that hatred was a motivating factor in the crime for the additional felony charges of hate crime to be added. If you need assistance in reporting a hate crime, call the Commission at 312.744.4874.

Hate crimes are acts of bigotry, and are committed because of the intended victim’s actual or perceived ancestry, color, creed, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability (including HIV status), or national origin. Hate crimes not only harm the victim, but also the group in which the targeted member belongs.

Hate crimes can only be charged when another crime such as battery, assault, aggravated assault, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass to vehicle or to real property, mob action, looting, disorderly conduct or harassment by telephone occurs and a specific hate motive is established. Hate Crime is a Class 4 felony. If a convicted hate crime offender receives a probationary sentence, the court may also impose community service hours.

According to Illinois law, hate can be considered an aggravating factor and “accorded weight in favor of imposing a term of imprisonment or may be considered by the court as reason to impose a more severe sentence.”

Accessible Accommodations: Not Listed

Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Every Monday through Friday, 24 hours a day Chicago Police Department Assistance