People who dress and identify as goths are to be protected under new Hate Crime legislation according to reports from Derbyshire police.
The police force has been working closely with The Sophie Lancaster Foundation to tackle issues of hate crime towards members of the goth community. The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was established following Sophie's death in August 2016.
Sophie and her boyfriend were attacked because of the way that they were dressed, with Sophie's injuries resulting in her death in hospital following the incident.
'Crimes based on hatred must never be tolerated and Derbyshire Constabulary, together with partner agencies and communities, will do all we can to tackle all forms of hate crime.' Said Assistant Chief Constable Bill McWillaim.
'The tragic death of Sophie Lancaster is a moving reminder to us all how important our combined efforts are. As a force we are ensuring that we fully understand hate crime and we will be recording alternative subculture should this be an aggravating feature in any incident.'
Sylvia Lancaster OBE, mother of Sophie, said; 'After my unique daughter Sophie was brutally murdered because she chose to express her individuality I vowed to create a lasting legacy for her. Through Derbyshire Homes we delivered training across Derby city in June and on our last day we were delighted to hear the police and crime commissioner pledge along with the chief constable that they would make lives safer for the alternative community living in and visiting Derbyshire.
'The additional support that will be offered to victims of hate crimes and incidents is significant. The announcement of this important change near to the weekend of Bloodstock Festival is very proud moment for us and the organisers, artists and especially the festival attendees, the metallers, who support us so loyally finally getting the promise we made to them, to make their community safer.'
Bloodstock Festival is being held in Catton Park, Derbyshire this weekend, where they have a stage dedicated to Sophie Lancaster to show their support.
Amy.
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