The Michigan Attorney General has announced the formation of a Hate Crime Unit last Friday.
In a written statement the Attorney General said the unit will work to ensure that hate crimes are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Kelly Rossman-McKinney is a spokesperson for the Attorney General.
“We had no division that was focusing in any way shape or form on hate crimes.”
Rossman-McKinney said residents are encouraged to reach out via the state’s tip line if they believe they have witnessed, or are the victim of, a hate crime.
A spokesperson from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights said they look forward to learning more about the new unit because “Hate crimes in Michigan are real. They victimize not only the individual targeted but entire communities.”
A spokesperson for the ACLU of Michigan said they are “are pleased that the AG is taking hate crimes seriously and putting resources behind investigating and prosecuting.”
You can call in your tips at 313 456 0180.