Procedures for Reporting and Handling Hate Crimes


California law prohibits threats or acts of violence against individuals or groups or their property because of personal characteristics or associations. State laws similarly prohibit defacing, damaging, or destroying another's property to intimidate or interfere with his/her rights. Crimes which are normally misdemeanors can be felonies if committed because of bigotry. A conviction cannot be based on speech alone, unless the speech itself threatens violence against a specific individual or group of individuals, and the defendant has the ability to carry out the threat.

If you are the victim of or witness a hate crime, report it as soon as possible to the appropriate police agency. If you believe the individual responsible is a University student, staff, or faculty member, you may, in addition to filing a police report, initiate a grievance, which can include disciplinary action. If you wish to file a grievance, contact the Office of Student Judicial Affairs, 752-1128.

Disciplinary Action Against UCDMC Students, Staff, or Faculty

To report misconduct by a UC Davis student which impacts the health and safety of individuals on campus, contact the office of Student Judicial Affairs, 752-1128. University policies prohibit physical assault, including rape; threats of violence; and conduct that threatens health or safety, as well as vandalism and harassment. Although most student disciplinary matters are resolved informally by agreement, if a formal hearing is held, the complainant and the accused may each choose to attend or not attend the hearing, and may each be accompanied by an advisor at any stage of the process. Both complainant and accused are notified of the final decision and sanctions imposed, if any. A finding that the violation was intentional, forcible, violent, or motivated by hatred or bias, or that the offense involved premeditation, conspiracy, or emotional or physical harm to another will normally result in a sanction of suspension or dismissal.

UC Davis staff or faculty members may be subject to disciplinary action under applicable personnel policies or collective bargaining agreements. Report faculty misconduct to the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Relations, 752-6068. Report staff misconduct to the Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor, Human Resources and Risk Management, 752-3383.