Hate Crime in the 20th Century

What is a hate crime?

Hate crimes are crimes committed specifically against a person because of a feature of their identity.

When were hate crimes criminalised?

In 2005 the Criminal Justice Act gave courts new powers to issue more severe sentences for hate crimes, including homophobic and racial attacks.

What makes a hate crime?

Two main behaviours define hate crimes:

• ❖ Homophobic crimes.
• ❖ Racial attacks.

How are modern hate crimes treated?

After 2005, if a person was attacked for being gay or because of their race, it would be classed as a hate crime and treated more seriously by the authorities.