Under Washington state law, a person commits a hate crime if he, she or they injures or threatens someone (or destroys another’s property) because of perceptions of that person’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, gender, or mental, physical, or sensory disability. Essentially, if you do something to someone because they are ‘different than you’ … you most likely are committing a crime in Washington.
Tolerance, acceptance and equality are important things to remember; we all live and work together in one form or another. One Washingtonian apparently did not get the proverbial memorandum on this point, as he is now accused of berating his coworkers and others because they spoke Spanish in the workplace, not English. The man now faces four counts of a hate crime for allegedly injuring several co-workers due to his perception of their race and national origin. He also is charged with one count of assault for shoving and punching the on-duty manager after she fired him for his behavior. Perhaps not surprising, alcohol was involved. Apparently, the world really is a vampire, as the Smashing Pumpkins like to croon. Be kind out there, everyone.
If you or a loved one is in a bind because of a criminal charge, immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Criminal lawyer is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Criminal Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their criminal charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible. Criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Criminal Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
