Which term is typically used for a crime motivated by bias against a person's race?

The term "hate crime" is specifically used to describe criminal acts that are motivated by bias against various characteristics of an individual, including race. Hate crimes are distinguished from other crimes by the additional element of bias or prejudice, which is often reflected in the nature of the offense, the target selection, and the perpetrator's motivations. These crimes emphasize the impact of prejudice on individuals and communities, as they not only harm the immediate victim but also send a message of fear and division to others within the targeted group.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different types of criminal behaviors that do not inherently include a bias-based motivation. Aggravated assault, for example, denotes an attack that causes serious injury or involves a weapon, but it does not specify the perpetrator's motivations regarding race or any other bias. Similarly, robbery and burglary are property-related crimes focused on theft and unlawful entry, respectively, and do not incorporate the element of bias that defines hate crimes. Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for recognizing the broader societal implications involved in crimes motivated by hate.