Antisemitic Fliers Addressed By Napa DA, Police Chief

NAPA, CA—The Napa Police Department and the Napa County District Attorney's Office jointly addressed the recent distribution of antisemitic fliers throughout parts of the greater downtown Napa residential neighborhoods.

"These acts of hatred and intolerance have no place in our community, and our Offices would like to extend their heartfelt compassion and empathy to our Jewish community members who have been affected by this reprehensible behavior," Napa police Chief Jennifer Gonzales and Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley said Wednesday in a news release.

Police announced late Monday they were aware of the fliers and asked anyone with surveillance video or a license plate number of an involved vehicle to contact the Napa Police Department.

An investigation was underway into whether it constituted a hate crime or a hate incident, and it's important to understand the distinction between the two terms, Gonzales and Haley said.

A hate crime is an unlawful act committed against an individual or property motivated by the
victim's race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
disability. Hate crimes can include acts such as assault, vandalism, or threats of violence.

In contrast, a hate incident involves behaviors motivated by the same factors as hate crimes but
does not rise to the level of a criminal offense. Examples of hate incidents include the distribution
of offensive fliers or hate speech that, while deeply offensive and hurtful, may be protected
Constitutionally under the First Amendment.

"Regardless of the incident's classification, the community must stand united against all forms of hate and bigotry. We must actively work together to foster a peaceful environment of respect, inclusivity, and understanding," the police chief and DA said.

Potential solutions, both legal and otherwise, were shared to prevent such acts in the future:

1. Legal Measures: Thorough Investigation and Prosecution:

• The Napa Police Department and Napa District Attorney’s Office will collaboratively work together. If this incident meets the criteria for a hate crime, we will pursue all available legal avenues to hold the perpetrators accountable.
• Enhanced Penalties: Advocate for enhanced penalties for hate crimes to send a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated.

• Victim Support Services: Provide robust support services for hate crime victims, including counseling, legal assistance, and community resources.

2. Community Initiatives:

• Education and Awareness: Implement educational programs in schools and community centers to raise awareness about the impact of hate speech and hate crimes.
• Promote cultural understanding and celebrate the diversity that strengthens our community.
• Dialogue and Engagement: Facilitate community dialogues and forums where residents can come together to discuss issues of prejudice and discrimination.
• Encourage open conversations that build empathy and understanding among diverse groups.
• Partnerships with Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with local and national organizations that specialize in combating hate and discrimination. Leverage their expertise and resources to develop comprehensive strategies for prevention and response.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Strengthen and promote accessible reporting mechanisms for hate incidents and crimes. Ensure that community members feel safe and supported when coming forward with information.

"Napa County is a place of beauty, diversity, and strength," Gonzales and Haley said. "Let us reaffirm our commitment to these values by standing against hatred and antisemitism, and working towards a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. If you have any information related to this incident, please contact Detective Romero at iromero@cityofnapa.org. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected."