In Light of the Islamic Center of San Diego Shooting: What to Do If You Witness Threatening or Dangerous Behavior

We want to extend our deepest condolences to the families and the Islamic community that were directly impacted by this event. Violence is never acceptable, and acts of violence targeting individuals based on race, religion, or ethnicity are especially disturbing for communities across San Diego and beyond.

The recent shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego has reminded San Diegans, as well as those across the United States, how important it is to take threats and dangerous behavior seriously. Reports surrounding the incident have raised serious concerns about extremist or hate-motivated behavior leading up to the tragic event, but these signs went unnoticed until it was too late. While not every concerning interaction signals violence, recognizing warning signs and responding appropriately can help protect public safety.

Threatening or dangerous behavior may include:

• Direct threats of violence

• Harassment targeting someone’s race, religion, ethnicity, or identity

• Discussions of planned violence

• Brandishing weapons in a threatening manner

• Stalking or intimidation

• Online posts encouraging violence or harm

• Aggressive behavior that causes fear for personal safety

If you believe there is an immediate danger, call 911 right away. Try to remain calm, move to a safe location if possible, and avoid escalating the situation.

If the threat is not immediate, document what you observed, including:

• Date and time

• Location

• Descriptions of individuals involved

• Specific statements or actions

• Photos or screenshots, if safely available

This information may help law enforcement properly assess the situation.

California Hate Crime Laws

California law takes threats, hate crimes, and acts of targeted violence seriously. Reporting credible concerns is important to help protect members of the community before situations escalate further.

California law imposes serious penalties for hate crimes and hate-motivated threats or violence. Under California law, a hate crime generally occurs when a person commits a criminal act because of someone’s:

• Race

• Religion

• Ethnicity

• National origin

• Sexual orientation

• Gender or gender identity

• Disability

Hate crimes can include physical violence, threats, vandalism, harassment, or intimidation motivated by bias against a protected group.

In some cases, prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties when a crime is determined to be motivated by hate or bias. California also prohibits hate incidents that may not rise to the level of a criminal offense but still involve discriminatory or threatening conduct.

Reporting credible threats or acts of targeted violence can help law enforcement intervene before situations escalate further.

Justice For All

Every person deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood, workplace, school, and place of worship. Acts of racial or religious violence are unacceptable and have no place in San Diego or any community.

If you have questions involving criminal charges, threats, or public safety concerns, speaking with an experienced attorney can help you better understand your rights and legal options.