Under Penal Code 422.55 it is a crime to harm, threaten, or harass someone because of a person’s disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, associations, or sexual orientation.
Penal Code 422.6 makes it illegal to interfere with someone else’s civil rights, or damage or destroy their property, because that person falls into one of these categories.
Under Penal Codes 422.7 and 422.75, prosecutors can charge a crime as a hate crime if bias plays a role.
If someone commits vandalism, assault, or another offense because of the victim’s disability, gender, nationality, race, religion, associations, or sexual orientation, the penalties increase. A hate crime conviction can bring a much heavier sentence.
If you are accused of a hate crime, contact the Law Office of H. Charles Gorian. We have experience fighting such charges and we know the California laws that affect your situation. Our law firm has helped men and women throughout Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County, and we may be able to help you.
One phone call could be the difference between harsh criminal penalties and freedom. Call our lawyer today at (951) 395-0511 for a free, no-risk, no-obligation case evaluation.