U.S. Attorney And The Central Florida Pledge Announce The Release Of Hate Crimes Prevention Training Videos In Support Of United Against Hate Week

Orlando, Florida - The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida (USAO-MDFL) and the Central Florida Pledge joined efforts to create hate crimes prevention training videos to inform the public about hate crimes and the importance of reporting them to law enforcement. The videos, which can be viewed on the Pledge's YouTube page, are each approximately 1-2 minutes in length and include topics how to distinguish between a hate crime and a hate incident; how to report a hate crime; what information to include when reporting a hate crime; and how to report acts of discrimination.

"In recognition of United Against Hate week, we hope the community will view these videos to learn more about hate crimes and the importance of reporting hate crimes or hate incidents they personally experience or witness," said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. "My office is committed to using our resources to assist victims of hate crimes, to help members of the community in preventing such crimes, to encourage reporting, and to hold accountable anyone who commits a federal hate crime."

The USAO-MDFL partnered with the Central Florida Pledge to create these videos in furtherance of its United Against Hate initiative, which brings federal prosecutors and investigative partners to present at area high schools, churches, and other community locations to help educate people on identifying, reporting, and preventing hate crimes and other civil rights violations. Together with our local partners, the USAO-MDL's United Against Hate campaign empowers students, residents, and communities to stand against racism and discrimination and alter the course of growing intolerance. Creating inclusion and equity are vital to building healthy and resilient communities. When cities and residents work together against hate, we can restore respect, embrace the strength of diversity and build inclusive and equitable communities for all.

Anyone who feels they have been the victim of a hate crime or may have witnessed one should immediately report the crime to state or local police by dialing 9-1-1. The next step is to quickly follow up that report by notifying the FBI. You can report a hate crime to the FBI online at tips.FBI.gov. You can also call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

Not every hate incident involves a crime. You can report any incident or allegations discrimination to the USAO-MDFL's Civil Rights Unit by calling our Civil Rights Hotline at (813) 274-6095 or by sending an email to [email protected].

Request a presentation for your school or community group by sending an email to [email protected].

Additional Resources:

FBI's 2023 Hate Crime Statistics: https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes/hate-crime-statistics

Facts on Florida's Hate Crime Incidents: https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes/state-specific-information/Florida

Hate Crime Case Examples: https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes/hate-crimes-case-examples

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