An Algonquin hate crime is defined as the vicitimization of another person based on their gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin or ethnic identification.  In Illinois, hate crime is a class 4 felony due to the recent implementation of legislation such as the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.  This bill expands and strengthens hate crime laws to include a victim’s disability, selual orientation, gender, or gender identity.

Hate claims happen closer to home than some people might believe.  It happens in big cities like Chicago, but also in places like Algonquin, where recently two brothers in Algonquin were accused of a hate crime when they beat and stabbed an African American man, who was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  The brothers were charged with a Class 3 felony, which could result in a jail sentence of up to 3 years.

If you have been charged with an Algonquin hate crime, or criminal charge anywhere in McHenry County, please contact lawyer David B. Franks for legal representation.  With many years of criminal defense, Mr. Franks offers experienced legal representation for those accused of felony criminal activity including hate crime, domestic violence, assault and battery, and other crimes involving violence and the harm of another’s person.  Contact him at 847-854-7700 for a free initial consultation.