'Zero Tolerance' For Bias Crimes Remains In Chatham Boro

CHATHAM, NJ - The outbreak of the new coronavirus, or COVID-19, has brought with it allegations of bias against some around the nation and the Chatham Borough Police Department will have none of it.

"In accordance with our Zero Tolerance position on Bias Incidents, it shall be the policy of the Chatham Borough Police Department to bring the investigative and enforcement elements of the law enforcement community into quick action following any and all suspected or confirmed bias incidents," police said in a statement, "There shall also be special emphasis placed on victim assistance and community relations in order to reduce victim trauma and community tension or fear."

Police noted that anyone found to have engaged in bias crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Chatham Police also answered some common questions on the subject:

What is a bias incident?

A bias incident or hate crime is any suspected or confirmed offense or unlawful act which occurs against a person or property (public or private) on the basis of New Jersey’s nine protected classes: race, color, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and national origin.

What are some common types of bias/hate crimes?

Bias incidents and hate crimes take many forms, ranging from racially motivated graffiti, to threats of physical harm, to actual infliction of property damage or bodily injury. Under New Jersey law, any crime – such as harassment, assault, terroristic threats, arson, criminal mischief, or homicide – is subject to more serious punishment if the crime was committed against a person because of bias.

What should I report?

You should report any and all suspected or confirmed bias incidents to your local police department. In other words, if you are a victim of, or a witness to, any offense which occurs against a person based on that person’s race, color, religion, gender, or other protected status, then you should report that incident.

What if I’m uncomfortable reporting incidents to local police?

Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has specific personnel assigned to the Bias Crimes Unit. You also may report a bias incident to the NJ Attorney General’s Office online nj.gov/oag, via email to njbias@njdcj.org or by calling the Bias Hotline at 800-277-BIAS (2427).

Do I have to give my name and contact information?

You do not have to give your name or contact information. You can report a bias incident anonymously.

Who reviews bias incident reports in New Jersey?

Every bias incident reported in New Jersey is reviewed by law enforcement at many levels, including the Chatham Borough Police Department, New Jersey State Police, County Prosecutor’s Office, the Office of Homeland Security & Preparedness, and/or the Attorney General’s Office. These layers of review ensure that bias incidents are investigated thoroughly and properly.

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