L.A. City Attorney Mike Feuer highlighted an increase in crimes targeting Asian Americans during a recent “Message From Mike” address. (photo courtesy of the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office)

In response to the significant increase in hate crimes and hate incidents reported by Asian Americans across the nation connected to the spread of COVID-19, Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer recently aired a video message reiterating his support for the community.

Feuer asked all Angelenos to join him on social media denouncing the hate incidents, and said his office is working with law enforcement partners to address the increase in crimes. Feuer promised that his Hate Crimes Unit will carefully and thoroughly review each case when presented, and when appropriate, aggressively prosecute.

“Those hate incidents against Asian Americans that we saw at the beginning of the pandemic last year have recently, disturbingly resurged,” Feuer said. “From neighborhoods right here in Los Angeles to cities across the nation, Asian Americans have been reporting more hate crimes and incidents of harassment and discrimination. Let me be very clear. My office is working closely with law enforcement partners to address this disturbing increase.”

Feuer said while not all incidents rise to the level of being a crime, the conduct is unacceptable. He encouraged people to use social media to denounce hate incidents against Asian Americans and to use #StopAsianHate. 

“All of us together must take every action we can to put a stop to them,” Feuer added.

Los Angeles City Councilman Mitch O’Farrell also called the increase in crimes targeting Asian Americans appalling.

“The Asian American Pacific Islander community is experiencing hate crimes at an alarming rate due to the racist rhetoric espoused by bigots during the COVID-19 pandemic,” O’Farrell said. “Many of these attacks are targeted toward the elderly. These cowardly acts of violence must be dealt with to the full extent of the law. The Asian American Pacific Islander community is an integral and cherished part of the culture in Los Angeles and the 13th District.  I call on each and every one of us to stand with the AAPI community and against xenophobia, racism and hate wherever it is found.”

For information, visit lacityattorney.org.  To view the message, visit youtube.com/watch?v=iwAFK3OP0fQ&feature=youtu.be.