Hate Crimes Topic Of Regional Police Forum In Newington

NEWINGTON, CT — Residents from across central Connecticut are invited to attend a public forum next week focused on hate crimes, their impact on communities, and how law enforcement agencies investigate and respond to them.

The program, scheduled for Monday, June 8, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., will take place in the Newington Town Council Chambers at 200 Garfield St., Newington.

The event comes as Connecticut has experienced an increase in reported hate crimes in recent years, according to organizers.

Participating speakers will include Newington Police Chief Christopher Perry, Rocky Hill Police Chief Brian Klett, Berlin Police Chief Matt McNally, Cromwell Police Chief Steven Penn and Wethersfield Police Chief Rafael Medina.

Representatives from the Connecticut State Police Hate Crimes Investigative Unit and Christian M. Watson, state's attorney for the Judicial District of New Britain, will also take part.

Organizers said the discussion will focus on how hate crimes are identified, reported and investigated, as well as ways community members can help prevent such incidents.

The forum is open to all members of the public.

The event is being coordinated through the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection's Hate Crimes Initiative.

For additional information, residents may contact Hate Crimes Initiative Coordinator Michael Bloom at Michael.Bloom@ct.gov.