Gov. Lamont signs new law expanding reach of Hate Crimes Unit

Just hours before a gunman killed at least 15 people at a Texas elementary school, Gov. Ned Lamont signed a new law expanding the reach of Connecticut State Police's new Hate Crimes Unit.
"The state of Connecticut is being proactive in doing this," said state Rep. Geraldo Reyes (D-Waterbury). "We don't need to see another situation like Buffalo here."
Hate crimes are becoming more common and more severe, as News 12 detailed in our special report "Hate at Home." In Connecticut alone, the Anti-Defamation League says they jumped 42% last year
State police launched the new Hate Crimes Unit last October, but the new law requires that it stay in effect. Detectives will also have access to more data. Starting in January, local police departments will have 14 days to report a wider range of hate crimes, including threats, intimidation based on bigotry and property destruction. Police will also have one standardized form to report such investigations to the new division.
After the bill signing, News 12 got a rare look inside the unit's nerve center at State Police headquarters in Middletown. A sergeant and detectives analyze data and monitor potential threats.
"There are a lot of tells -- a lot of tells for these folks, you know, online," said Lamont.
Police say accused Buffalo gunman Payton Gendron left a trail of red flags online, including threatening social media posts and a manifesto outlining his planning.
But State Police Commissioner James Rovella says there are limitations to monitoring someone's activity online.
"You're referring to the fine line between freedom of speech and either 'aspirational' folks who become 'operational' in a moment's notice," he said.
As an example, Rovella said the Hate Crimes Unit is investigating groups spreading racist fliers and stickers around the Hartford area, but they are not tracking members online.
"We're not digging into the people that are part of this group," he said. "Right now, it's a freedom of speech incident, unless somebody wants to press charges and say it's a criminal mischief."
Connecticut State Police are asking for people to report possible hate incidents, even if they seem minor. You can send them a tip at hate.crimes@ct.gov.
Also this week, the State Bond Commission is expected to approve $5 million for security upgrades at nonprofits and religious institutions.