03-12-2012, 07:49 AM
Hate crime statutes are on the books in 45 states and Washington, D.C. Federal hate crime laws can carry sentences ranging from a year to life in prison -- even the death penalty can be imposed in hate crimes involving murder.
Hate crime laws don't punish speech or thoughts, which are protected by the First Amendment. But when an individual commits a crime based on biased beliefs and intentionally targets another for violence or vandalism, the person can be charged with violating a hate crime law and will face a stiffer sentence.
The original 1969 federal hate crime law covered race, religion, ethnicity and national origin. It now includes sexual orientation and disability.
Hate crime laws don't punish speech or thoughts, which are protected by the First Amendment. But when an individual commits a crime based on biased beliefs and intentionally targets another for violence or vandalism, the person can be charged with violating a hate crime law and will face a stiffer sentence.
The original 1969 federal hate crime law covered race, religion, ethnicity and national origin. It now includes sexual orientation and disability.