For each violation of the hate crime statute, what is the maximum civil penalty that can be imposed by Illinois courts?

In Illinois, the hate crime statute provides for civil penalties as a means of addressing and deterring acts motivated by bias against certain protected characteristics, such as race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and others. The maximum civil penalty that Illinois courts can impose for each violation of the hate crime statute is $25,000. This amount serves as a significant deterrent against committing hate crimes and acts as a means of restitution for victims affected by such offenses.

This high penalty reflects the serious nature of hate crimes in society and underscores the state’s commitment to addressing and eliminating bias-driven violence and discrimination. It is intended to hold offenders accountable and convey that such behavior is unacceptable. By imposing substantial penalties, the law aims to provide a strong message both to potential offenders and to the communities affected by hate crimes.

Other amounts, such as $10,000, $1,000, and $500, do not represent the current maximum civil penalty established under the hate crime statute and therefore do not serve the same purpose or deterrent effect.