Hate crimes can now be reported to Ottawa Police online

_ (Via Ottawa Police) _ (Ottawa)— Starting today, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to provide the option of reporting hate crimes using our online reporting system.

“Our community partners have requested this and I’m pleased to see it being implemented,” said Chief Charles Bordeleau. “This will provide an alternative means of access to police services and help to eliminate these kinds of crimes in our communities.”

For those with language or other barriers, the online system can provide an easier way to report these crimes. Family members or friends can help complete the report, if needed, and it will be reviewed within 24 hours after being filed.

“The impact of hate crime is immense. It can destroy lives, instill fear and break down the fabric of our communities,” said Diversity and Race Relations Staff Sergeant David Zackrias. “By reporting hate crime when it happens, you can help prevent it from happening to someone else. You will also help the OPS to better understand the trends of hate crimes in our city, and be in a better position to respond appropriately, sensitively and effectively to those trends.”

To report a hate crime using our online system, visit www.ottawapolice.ca/onlinereporting .