Published: Sunday, 18th October, 2009 8:00am

Police In East Ayrshire Continue Hate Crime Crackdown

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Victims and witnesses of hate crime in East Ayrshire are being encouraged to help bring offenders to justice.

Hate crime is any criminal offence committed against a person or property that is motivated by a hatred of someone because of their race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability

There are several ways in which victims and witnesses of hate crime in East Ayrshire can formally report incidents:

At their local police office. If the incident is urgent this is the best way to report it. If someone is in immediate danger, always phone 999.

At the East Ayrshire North Communities Federation (EANCF) office at 1 Titchfield Street, Kilmarnock. Trained staff can take information at this remote reporting centre, anonymously or otherwise. The information is then passed to police.

Via the online hate crime form on the Strathclyde Police website (www.strathclyde.police.uk). This form is submitted directly to the police, and can be completed anonymously.

Though the number of hate crimes committed in East Ayrshire is low, that does not lessen the impact on those affected. Some victims and witnesses prefer not to involve the police, but it is hoped the introduction of the remote reporting centre in Kilmarnock might encourage more people to come forward.

Inspector Archie Harkness, of Kilmarnock Police Office, said: "I am delighted East Ayrshire North Communities Federation has joined the third party reporting scheme for hate crime, becoming the first organisation in Ayrshire to do so.

"Remote reporting gives those affected by hate crime the chance to report it without dealing directly with the police.

"Whether someone is a victim or a witness to a hate crime, reporting incidents assists the police in tackling the issue. All information is valuable and can enable us to identify areas of concern, patterns of behaviour and could lead to the prosecution of offenders. Anything that assists in getting those responsible caught and jailed is a good thing."

Established in 2005, East Ayrshire North Communities Federation (EANCF) operates within the council Wards 1 to 6. EANCF aims to involve residents in the processes that affect them, to provide safer and more active communities.

John McFadzean, chairman of EANCF, said: "We are delighted to become involved in the remote reporting process, which will hopefully help tackle any hate crime in the area.

"Together, we can make a difference and help East Ayrshire become a better place to live and work".