News: A hate crime in WV?

On Wednesday (Sept. 12th) it was reported that the six white suspects accused of torturing Megan Williams for almost a week will not face federal hate crime charges. Logan County Prosecutor Brian Abraham said his office would pursue other charges first because they carry stiffer penalties. West Virginia’s hate crime law carries a sentence of up to 10 years.

It was also reported that Megan Williams dated one of her attackers, Bobby Brewster. This may undermine the hate crime law, which applies to crimes motivated by racial hatred and not by non-race-related conflicts.

It was widely reported that Williams was assaulted with a knife, while being taunted with racial slurs. So, just because she dated and knew the attackers this isn’t a hate crime? Some people are saying that this is a good/bad thing.

What do you think?

Related Links:
Hate Crimes Decision Causes Stir (ABC News)
Family Calls For Hate Crime Charges in Rape and Torture Case (WOWK-TV)