Santa Cruz Police will not tolerate any form of hate crime.

When there is a cause, SCPD will always take the proper and strongest action possible concerning hate crimes.

On July 5, 2020, at about 6:24 pm, SCPD responded to an altercation between a black man attacked by a white suspect who drew a knife and started slashing at the victim on San Lorenzo Blvd and Broadway Street. The suspect, Ole Hougen 43 years old, screamed racial slurs at the victim during the incident. Fortunately, the victim was able to fend off the attacker until officers arrived.

Mr. Hougen was arrested and charged for a hate crime, the criminal act committed against another person that is motivated by prejudice and assault with a deadly weapon.

The suspect Ole Hougen, only wanted a "white person to help" take him into custody. Not an SCPD accommodation. Our staffing includes people of color. Mr. Hougen continued to make racial comments and slur towards SCPD officers and jail staff during the booking process. Officers remained professional at all times, even though his behavior was out of control and unacceptable.

If a community member is a victim of, or witness to, what they believe to be a hate crime, call SCPD at 9-1-1 or (831) 471-1131.