Hate crimes against homeless people likely going unreported, police say

Calgary police say some hatecrimes against homeless people in Calgary are likely not being reported to themsomething they want to improve.

It follows a violent attack last month near the Bow Towerin the city's downtownwhere a vulnerable homeless man was pushed over andkicked in what police believe wasa hate-motivated attack.

The man sufferedinjuriesand required medical attention after he was kicked in the ribs and face.

Two men have since been charged with aggravated assault in the case.

Police and homeless agencies say more attacks against homeless people are likely happening but aren'tbeing reported to them.

"We believe that we're missing out on a good chunk of potential hate crime reported by the vulnerable population," said Const.Matt Messenger with thehate crimes team of the Calgary Police Service.

Messenger saidpolice are working in an outreach capacity to educateshelters and their clients on what constitutes a hate crime and to build more trust.

"There's definitely barriers in place between the vulnerable population and the police. Sometimes they're not aware they've been victimized or they just don't feel safe coming forward to report it," said Messenger.

Messenger saidofficial data only showstwo violent hate crimes directed athomeless people since December.

"It's difficult to gauge. Anecdotally we certainly hear about them and know that they do happen which is extremely unfortunate," said Sandra Clarkson, executive director of the Calgary Drop-In Centre.

Clarkson saidher organization offers victim services to clients, working with them to report crimes to police and encourage them to allow the justice system to get involved, but it can be a challenge.

"For some there are negative interactions or experiences that they've had in the past, but we do try to work with them to follow the process," said Clarkson.

Clarkson saidthe issue highlights the broader need for housing for all and that nobody deserves to belivingon the streets or in shelters.

She saidthe DOAP (Downtown Outreach Addictions Partnership)team can help vulnerable individuals and take them offthe street and toa safe place.

If you see someone on the streetin distress you can contact theDOAP team at403998-7388.