BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The New York State Attorney General's office is launching a hot-line meant to combat Coronavirus related hate crimes and xenophobic rhetoric.
Attorney General Letitia James said there have been numerous reports of Asian Americans being harassed and physically assaulted in New York this past week. James' office said it's working with local law enforcement agencies because they are the ones able to punish hate crimes.
In the press release from the Attorney General's office, James said:
As we face an unprecedented and uncertain time for New York, the United States, and the world, we must reiterate the fact that this pandemic does not give anyone an excuse to be racist, xenophobic, or biased.
The Buffalo Police Department tells 7 Eyewitness News it has not received any reports on Coronavirus related hate crimes.
It's not just threats towards Asian Americans that have officials concerned. According to ABC News, the FBI's New York office received reports that extremist groups are encouraging members who have Coronavirus to spread it to Jews and police officers.
Here is how to report hate crimes to the AG's Office:
No one should live in fear for their life because of who they are, what they look like or where they come from.
— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) March 23, 2020
I encourage all victims of ANY discriminatory actions to contact my office:
☎️(800) 771-7755
✉️civil.rights@ag.ny.gov
