Hate crimes continue to rise in Colorado

For the first time in four years, hate crimes declined across America. But that was not the case here in Colorado. In fact, the number of hate crimes recorded in Colorado actually increased.

According to a recent FBI report, the number of cases reported to authorities increased from 106 to 123 last year.

Two instances just this month involving hate crimes in Colorado include a white supremacist who was arrested for plotting to blow up Temple Emanuel, a synagogue in Pueblo. Shortly after that, Denver Police arrested a man for carrying an airsoft rifle and was being accused of making anti-muslim remarks near a mosque.

Because of the rise, State Attorney General Phil Weiser has announced a new partnership to address the issue surrounding hate crimes in the state.

At a press conference Monday morning hosted by the Colorado Coalition Against Hate and Weiser, they said they believe some cases have slipped through the hands of law enforcement and prosecutors.

Scott Levin, executive director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, said, "Train law enforcement. It's so important that they understand what is a hate crime and how to prosecute it."

And because not everyone is comfortable with going to law enforcement, this new partnership will train religious and community leaders as well. This way, if people reach out to them, they can help connect them with law enforcement.