Hate crimes in Florida are at their lowest level since 1997. That’s according to the 2008 Florida Hate Crimes Report released this month by the state Attorney General’s Office.
The report is compiled from data submitted by 415 local law enforcement agencies. Hate crimes are divided into two categories: crimes against people and crimes against property. The majority of Florida’s hate crimes are crimes against people, making up 66% of all hate crimes reported, down slightly from 2007.
In addition to the number of crimes committed, the report also breaks down crimes by county and what motivates the offense. Race and religion top the list, followed by sexual orientation, the cited reason behind 19% of Florida’s hate crimes.
Most areas of the state reported fewer hate crimes, but South Florida showed an increase from the previous year.
Briefs
Florida’s anti-gay adoption rules face funding bill
A federal bill may find Florida scrambling for funding based on the state’s adoption laws outlawing adoption by gays and same-sex parents. Congressman Pete Stark of California has introduced the “Every Child Deserves A Family Act,” bill H.R. 3827. According to Stark’s web site, the legislation would prohibit states and child welfare agencies from denying or delaying adoption or foster care placements solely based on the sexual orientation or marital status of the potential parents. States that break the rules would be denied federal funding.
Gainesville voyeur supported anti-LGBT ordinance
A Gainesville man might be a little too concerned about who is doing what during bathroom time. Jonathan Matheny, 27, was busted for filming women using the bathroom in the CVS he managed. He was also a supporter of an anti-transgender ordinance to block equal access to restrooms for transgender citizens, a charter amendment that was defeated by voters. Matheny was charged with video voyeurism after a customer found his cell phone hidden in the restroom.
