Disability hate crime

Any incident, which is perceived to be based upon prejudice towards or hatred of the victim because of their actual or perceived disability.

In April 2005 the law was changed by section 146 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (CJA).

Section 146 did not create any new offences; it imposed a duty upon courts to increase the sentence for any offence (for example, assault or criminal damage) aggravated by hostility based on the victim’s disability (or presumed disability).

Support available:

Stop Learning Disability Hate Crime HELPLINE

Tel: 0808 802 1155

Dunstable Disability Resource Centre

An advice service for disabled people living in Bedfordshire and the surrounding area.

Poynters House, Poynters Rd, Dunstable LU5 4TP.

Tel: 01582 470900