Portland Police Dept Photo
Maine’s Attorney General Monday announced he would file a civil rights action against a man suspected in a hate crime in Portland, reports Newscenter Maine.
Authorities say Troy Sprague, 42, screamed “go back to your country” and “you Chinese, go back to your country” as a mom sat inside with her 12-year-old daughter.
He then allegedly kicked the vehicle’s partially opened window and damaged the side view mirror.
“We are bearing witness to an unconscionable increase in hate crimes being perpetrated against individuals of Asian descent across our nation,” said Attorney General Anthony Frey, reported the Bangor Daily News. “We will not tolerate such attacks in Maine, and we will act swiftly to address allegations like those received last week out of Portland.”
Police arrested Saturday following the March 15 incident and charged him with criminal mischief and interfering with constitutional and civil rights.
Frey’s action means Sprague will face formal hate crime charges. Authorities will also seek a restraining order to protect the victims.
Sprague is described as homeless and experiencing mental health issues.
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