19-Year-Old Charged with Hate Crime in Utah for Destroying "Back the Blue" Sign

A 19-year-old woman, named Chloe Anderson, has been charged with a hate crime in Utah after allegedly destroying a “Back the Blue” sign while a sheriff’s deputy was present. According to law enforcement, Chloe crumpled the sign and tossed it into a trash can, reportedly smirking in an intimidating manner at the deputy during the incident, which occurred after a traffic stop.

Chloe, who hails from California, faces charges of disorderly conduct and criminal mischief, with a hate crime enhancement that could lead to a maximum of one year in jail. The deputy, who filed a probable cause affidavit, observed Chloe “stomping” on the sign and noted her demeanor as aggressive and aimed at intimidating law enforcement.

Chloe’s Explanation

Chloe explained to reporters that she and her friends had just returned from a camping trip when they were pulled over and issued a speeding ticket. Upset by the deputy’s perceived aggressiveness, she picked up a rusty “Back the Blue” sign that they had found discarded and decided to dispose of it. “I just wanted to, I don’t know, make her feel better or something or stand up for her,” Chloe stated, referring to her friend.

Law Enforcement’s Response

The sheriff’s office claimed the sign was stolen and that Chloe’s actions constituted a targeted attack on the officer due to his role in law enforcement. They expressed concern over the hostility directed at police officers, hoping for a resolution to the nation’s existing divisions.

Hate Crime Legislation in Utah

Interestingly, while the concept of hate crimes typically concerns prejudice against individuals based on identity, Utah’s 2019 hate crime legislation includes protections for law enforcement personnel. The ACLU of Utah has stepped in to assist Chloe with her defense, asserting that the charges send a troubling message about governmental retribution against those who oppose police conduct. They warned that hate crime laws should not be weaponized against dissenting voices.

Conclusion

In summary, Chloe Anderson, a 19-year-old from California, has been charged with a hate crime in Utah for allegedly destroying a “Back the Blue” sign in front of a sheriff’s deputy. The case has sparked discussions around hate crime legislation as it pertains to law enforcement and the implications of using such charges against those who express dissent.