FAQs
Frequently asked questions about Bias Incidents, Bias Crimes and other related Topics to Discrimination and Bias.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I am a victim or witness of a bias incident, what should I do?
- Call 911 if you are in danger, or call your local police department immediately.
- All referrals generated from local and county law enforcement agencies and the County Prosecutors’ Offices are overseen by the Bias Crimes Unit of the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
- You may also call the Attorney General’s Office Bias Hotline at 1 (800) 277-BIAS (2427) or you may fill out an online complaint form, which can be found here: File a Complaint NJ DCR Portal (njcivilrights.gov)
- When in doubt, report!
I am not sure if the incident I encountered is a crime or just an incident. Should I still report?
Although not every bias incident may lead to a prosecution, reporting bias incidents is very important. Reporting helps inform law enforcement about trends and patterns, what kind of outreach and security measures are needed, and helps to improve data collection.
How do I file a bias complaint?
- You can file a complaint with your local police department, through the NJBIAS online portal, or through the Bias Hotline (1-800-277-BIAS (2427)).
- Once submitted, the complaint is reviewed by detectives and/or analysts.
- If it is criminal in nature, DCJ will coordinate with investigative agencies to ensure the bias incident is handled properly and determine if criminal charges of bias should be pursued. If the complaint may involve a violation of the state’s civil rights laws, the matter is referred to the Division on Civil Rights.
What information should I provide when making a bias complaint?
- To aid with investigations, try to note important information, including location of incident, description or identities of those involved, other identifying physical features, such as tattoos and scars, of those involved personally, identifying information of any of those involved, license plate numbers, etc.
Do I have to identify myself if I report a bias incident/crime?
- No, you may remain anonymous if you wish.
- You may report a confidential “crime tip” online here, where you are able to remain anonymous. Or you may call your local PD as an anonymous caller.
What are signs of white supremacist radicalization?
The following behaviors can work as a guideline to help you identify possible white supremacist radicalization, particularly among youth:
- A sudden interest in becoming more religious or political
- Changes in appearance and dress style in a specific way
- Losing interest in hobbies or education
- Changes in a person’s circle of friends and disinterest in old acquaintances
- Increased social isolation
- Approval of the use of violence to support an idea or cause
- Racial intolerance or discriminatory behavior towards people of different ethnicities
- Sympathizing with extremist groups
- Visits to extremist websites
- Increased internet/social media usage
- Arguing with friends and family more frequently
- Developing a belief that people with different values, religions, or principles are less than
- Glorifying violence or advocating extreme messages
To learn more, read the Division on Civil Rights’ report on “Exposing White Supremacy in New Jersey Report.
