Mississippi Criminal and Family Law BlogAlmost everyone can agree that hate crimes are wrong. Like many other states, Mississippi has strict laws that punish people for specifically targeting people of different backgrounds. If you are charged with a hate crime in Mississippi, you will likely face severe legal consequences. On the other hand, the United States has long valued freedom of expression and freedom of thought. Merely voicing opinions that others do not share is unlikely to result in criminal charges. Freedom of expression is supposed to be protected under the constitution, no matter what.
If you have been charged with a hate crime in Mississippi, it is important to enlist the help of a qualified, experienced attorney as soon as possible. The consequences of a hate crime conviction can be quite serious. Not only will you face jail time and fines if found guilty, but your reputation could be completely destroyed. A criminal defense lawyer in Mississippi can help you clear your name and prove your innocence.
“Intent of Hatred” is Important
A noteworthy case in Mississippi proved that even though actions may be “perceived” as racist or hateful, this is not enough to warrant a hate crime conviction. During St. Louis’s Mardi Gras celebrations in 2020, a girl was handed a “racist” black Mardi Gras doll. According to one account, a white male handed her the doll with Mardi Gras beads wrapped around its head in a “noose.” Witnesses reported that the man stated “that’s you” when he handed the doll to the girl. The doll was also apparently dressed in “slave’s clothing.”
However, the police found little evidence of intent when they investigated the incident further. They determined that all of the dolls and stuffed animals were held with beads around their neck as they were tossed or handed out to the crowds of children. There were also conflicting accounts about what actually happened that day. In the end, the authorities stated that no statutes or ordinances were violated, and that “there was no intent of hatred.” The parents of the child remained offended and concerned, and they considered taking matters further with legal action on the federal level.
It is Important to Know When to Draw the Line
While hate crimes are undoubtedly offensive and unforgivable, it is important to know when to draw the line. If we become too relaxed and casual about accusing each other of hate crimes, matters could spiral out of control. Soon enough, we would all be accused of hate crimes on a daily basis – simply for looking at people the wrong way or choosing the wrong words accidentally. The “intent” aspect of Mississippi’s hate crime laws are important. Just because someone perceives an act to be hateful or racist, it does not mean there was any real malice behind these actions.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been accused of a hate crime, it is important to seek out a qualified defense attorney as soon as possible. Trust Vic Carmody Jr., P.A., and you can approach this situation in a dignified, confident manner. We will use a range of different strategies to help you clear your name, and we can mitigate any legal consequences you might be facing.