To: UC Santa Cruz Community

From: Chief of Police, Nader Oweis

Subject: October 21 Hate Crime Investigation

On October 21, 2020 at approximately 3:45 p.m., the UC Santa Cruz Police Department responded to a verbal altercation between two people near the Academic Resource Center and the Digital Arts Research Center. Upon arrival, our officers identified those involved in the altercation and subsequently determined that they used offensive words in a public place that are inherently likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction, a criminal act [415(c) PC].

Our investigation also revealed that this criminal act was committed, in whole or in part, because of one or more actual or perceived protected characteristics of the victim (422.55 PC). As such, we have classified this incident as a hate crime.

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department determined that portions of this incident were shared on social media, but may not provide a complete account of the actions of those involved.

Based on our investigation, the findings have been sent to the Santa Cruz District Attorney for filing of criminal charges.

These types of incidents are unacceptable and we take them seriously.  We also recognize the impact and harm these incidents have on our community members. The campus has support services  offered by staff in our colleges and Counseling and Psychological Services for students. The Employee Assistance Program can provide counseling and support for staff and faculty. In these difficult times, we must also support one another as fellow members of the UCSC community. 

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to call  the UC Santa Cruz Police Department at 831.459.2231 ext. 1 to speak with an officer.