Madison police create Hate Crimes Task Force
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Madison, Wis. – The Madison Police Department has created a new task force to help identify and prevent hate crimes in Madison.
The task force was proactively formed to address bias-motivated threats, harassment and violence throughout Madison. It includes positions from our investigative, community outreach and records units.
Members will investigate reported incidents, assist affected communities when an incident is verified and work with community members to proactively report any warnings signs of bias-motivated crimes.
The United States Department of Justice tracks hate crimes state-by-state. The task force would not change how hate crime data is reported.
Statewide, hate crimes have basically doubled in Wisconsin in recent years. You can read about hate crimes in Wisconsin here.
In 2023, the Madison Police Department referred a hate crime enhancer 21 times to the District Attorney.
“Our city has a long history of inclusivity and tolerance. No person in Madison should ever live in fear because of their status,” Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said.
The 90-day task force launched on Jan. 3. It will be followed by a rigorous evaluation period.
Departments:
