The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Offices views its role prosecuting hate crimes with the utmost seriousness. Hate crimes are criminal offenses motivated by some form of bias toward a victim based on race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability. Hate crime cases charged as felonies are prosecuted through the Special Victims Bureau.
Prosecutors, victim advocates, and police work closely together to accurately identify when criminal conduct crosses the line into a hate crime and to seek justice for those harmed. The State’s Attorney’s Office also maintains strong relationships with community groups to monitor potential hate crime activities as they develop and respond quickly.
If you believe you have been the victim of a hate crime, call 911 to report the incident. You may also contact the following resources for additional support, or if you need assistance filing a police report.
- Cook County Sheriff’s Office Hate Crime Tip Form and phone number: 773-674-HELP (4357)
- Chicago Commission on Human Relations phone number: 312-744-4874