The Madison Police Department has created a new task force to help identify and prevent hate crimes in Madison that was proactively formed to address bias-motivated threats, harassment and violence throughout Madison, according to a press release from the City of Madison.
The 90-day task force officially launched on Jan. 3 and includes positions from MPD’s investigative, community outreach and records units.
“Our city has a long history of inclusivity and tolerance. No person in Madison should ever live in fear because of their status,” Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said in a press release.
Members will investigate reported incidents, assist affected communities when an incident is verified and work with community members to proactively report any warnings signs of bias-motivated crimes. The United States Department of Justice tracks hate crimes state-by-state. The task force would not change how hate crime data is reported.
