Hate Crimes
Hate crimes are against the law. It is the policy of the Scituate Police Department to safeguard the State and Federal rights of all individuals irrespective of their race, religion, ethnicity, handicap, sexual orientation, and gender and to treat seriously any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes that infringe upon these rights. Hate crimes are viewed seriously by the Scituate Police Department. Our department will use every necessary resource to rapidly and decisively ensure your safety, identify the perpetrators, arrest them and take vigorous enforcement action.
What is a Hate Crime?
- Any criminal act to which a bias motive is evident as a contributing factor,
- Any act which constitutes a violation of:
What is a Hate Incident?
- Any act whether consisting of conduct, speech or expression, to which a bias motive is evident as a contributing factor, without regard for whether the act constitutes a crime.
If you believe you have been a victim of a Hate Crime:
- Emergencies should be immediately reported by dialing 911
- Call 781.545.1212 to report an incident to a police officer.
- Incidents will be referred to our department’s Civil Right’s Officer who may serve as the point person on the case.
- Submit an anonymous tip to our Detective Bureau
Understanding Hate Crimes:
The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association has produced the following training video entitled "Hate Crimes Revisited", which was produced to give guidance to both police and citizens regarding what constitutes a true hate crime, as well as an overview of applicable criminal and civil statutes.
Scituate Police Department's Designated Civil Rights Officer
The Scituate Police Department's designated Civil Rights Officer is Detective Owen Kirkbride who can be reached by phone or email.
Detective Owen Kirkride
Phone: 781-545-1212 ext. 7923
Email: okirkbride@scituatema.gov