Hate crime scrutiny panel to look at incidents across Leicestershire & Rutland
PCC welcomes increased scrutiny into the investigation of hate crimes
The PCC for Leicestershire and Rutland has welcomed the panel to scrutinise the investigation of hate crime across the region.
Independent members of the panel will work to identify ways they can improve the investigation of hate crime incidents and improve the support for victims throughout the criminal justice journey.
They will also evaluate the handling of closed hate crime cases to provide constructive feedback, highlighting areas of good practice as well as potential policy development for the future.
Many incidents are still not reported
Reports of hate crime has fallen over the past 12 months, but many incidents are still not reported.
Following public concern the PCC wanted to a platform to learn lessons from real cases to increase trust and confidence among victims and the public.
Mr Matthews said:
"There is no place for hatred or discrimination in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. It will not be tolerated.
It is vital these communities and all those who have suffered or are at risk of hate crime feel recognised
"We have seen firsthand how quickly tensions can escalate and threaten the safety of our people, leaving residents fearful of leaving their homes.
It is vital these communities and all those who have suffered or are at risk of hate crime feel recognised.
I want them to trust the police and prosecutors to do everything possible to protect them and bring those responsible to justice.
"This Panel will increase our understanding of how hate crimes impact the victims.
This will help us to improve the way crimes are investigated and encourage more people to report their experiences in the future.
"It's disappointing that hate crime remains significantly under-reported and the learning points identified by the panel will help us to build confidence and trust to change that."