I am Police Constable Al Russo, Hate Crime Co-ordinator Merseyside Police.

I deal with hate crimes and incidents in the Knowsley and St Helens areas of Merseyside.

What is a hate crime?

A hate crime is when someone commits a crime against you because of your disability, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, or any other perceived difference.

It doesn't always include physical violence. Someone using offensive language towards you or harassing you because of who you are, or who they think you are, is also a crime.

What is a hate incident?

A hate incident is any non-crime incident which is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity or perceived disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

It can be in many forms including verbal or online abuse, insults or harassment such as taunting, offensive leaflets and posters, abusive gestures or bullying.

If it happens to you, you might be tempted to shrug it off. But if you tell me, I can investigate and stop it from getting worse – either for you or someone else. 

How to report a hate crime or incident to me

You can report a hate crime or incident by completing the eForm below