This policy is designed to assist in identifying and handling crimes motivated by hate or other bias toward individuals and groups with legally defined protected characteristics, to define appropriate steps for assisting victims, and to provide a guide to conducting related investigations. It outlines the general policy framework for prevention, response, accessing assistance, victim assistance and follow-up, and reporting as related to law enforcement's role in handling hate crimes. It also serves as a declaration that hate crimes are taken seriously and demonstrates how the Simi Valley Police Department may best use its resources to investigate and solve an offense. In addition to building community trust and increasing police legitimacy.

SVPD Policy 319: Hate Crimes