Long Beach Police Department Supports Homeless Hate Crimes Bill

California has the largest homeless population in the U.S.; it also has the highest rate of violence against them with almost one in three homeless persons having served in the military. There has been a growing trend in California of homeless people becoming the target of senseless violence. However, last month a bill was passed by the Senate giving homeless people a way to take action against those who attack or assault them. They can sue them for enhanced penalties if it can be proven that the attack occurred due to the victim's membership in a particular group.

The author of the bill, Assemblywoman Bonnie Lowenthal of Long Beach, stated that the bill is the state's method of saying that these kinds of attacks are reprehensible and should not be tolerated. The bill addresses crime where the homeless are assaulted and brutalized for simply being homeless. This kind of legal protection already exists to individuals based upon their marital status, age, race, ancestry, gender and political affiliation. Assembly Bill 312 would add homeless individuals to the groups who can sue for enhanced penalties. In addition to the Long Beach Police Department's support, other supporters include the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, The California Peace Officers Association and the California State Sheriff's Association as well as Los Angeles Mayor Villaraigosa, US Vets and AMVETS.

Crimes Against a Person in Long Beach

In legal terms, "crimes against a person" can involve different types of charges including: assault, battery, murder, sex crimes, manslaughter, kidnapping, domestic violence and more. The term "person," is legally interpreted to mean the freedom of an individual to move about willfully and refers to the health and integrity of the person's body. Stiff penalties are connected to crimes against a person due to their violent nature.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with such a crime in the Long Beach or surrounding area, you should consult with a Long Beach criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible. At the Law Office of Leonard Matsuk, we have the skills and experience you need to aggressively aid in your defense. With over 30 years practicing in the Long Beach and surrounding area courts, Attorney Matsuk knows the system, the clerks, prosecutors and the judges. His impressive amount of trial work (over 200 bench trials and over 100 jury trials) sets him apart from many other lawyers who lack this kind of hands-on experience. We limit our caseload so that every client of ours can receive the personalized attention they deserve. Whether you have been arrested or just accused of a crime, don't delay in getting help as your future is greatly at risk.

For competent, experienced legal help, contact a Long Beach criminal defense lawyer in our office to schedule an appointment today.