The entire idea of “hate crimes” is completely retarded. It makes no difference if I shoot someone because I want their wallet, or if it’s because I “hate” them. They’re still just as dead, one reason should be no less punished than the other. Something done because of hate is impossible to prove. There isn’t currently a mind reading device I’m aware of. One would have to assume the motive, the Justice system doesn’t (shouldn’t) do that. Originally Posted by JacuzzmeIs intent not always a factor in crimes of violence? This brawl seems to have started over frustration from a group of people towards dock workers. No indication either group went looking for people who fit some demographic it just got out of hand and likely tempers flared due to race on some level and comments were made in the moment that some will say make it a 'hate crime' and on that level I agree with you its just people being mad and fighting.
I do think intent matters. The difference between a death penalty murder case and 5 years in prison or a not guilty verdict is often intent. Sometimes it can be proven other times not.
At some point many of the people involved in this riverboat brawl will claim they were just trying to help the dock worker who was attacked or defend the boaters once others came after them. Most likely a jury will be making the decisions on what motivated each person and group in just the same way they would address the issue of 'hate' if those were the charges.
It is about justice and fair consequences. If it is unlawful to refuse someone service based on being a woman, black, or Jewish why would it not be a harsher penalty for singling that person out for violence? If intent on that level can't be proved so be it. But if it can it should factor into the penalty