What do we call a criminal offense motivated by bias against a person's characteristics?

A criminal offense motivated by bias against a person's characteristics is referred to as a hate crime. Hate crimes are defined as criminal acts where the perpetrator's motivation stems from a bias against a person's race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic. This bias can manifest in various ways, including physical violence, threats, vandalism, or harassment.

The classification of a hate crime highlights the underlying motivation of prejudice rather than just the act itself. Recognizing these crimes is crucial for law enforcement and society to address and combat discrimination effectively. Furthermore, hate crimes often have broader societal impacts, instilling fear in communities and perpetuating systemic inequalities.

While terms like felony or misdemeanor refer to the severity of a crime, they do not encompass the motivational aspect of bias that is central to the definition of a hate crime. Similarly, a bias incident may refer to an act that expresses prejudice but does not necessarily involve criminal behavior. Therefore, the terminology is essential in understanding the nuances of such offenses and their implications for both victims and the broader community.