As World Cup matches pack stadiums and fan zones across the New York metro area, the FBI’s New York field office is delivering a blunt reminder: if you target fellow fans with hate, you might not just be dealing with local cops. You could be answering to federal investigators.
What the FBI said
In a brief post on X on Friday, the bureau reminded followers that “hate crimes are a federal offense” and urged anyone who sees something to say something. The message referenced comments from Special Agent in Charge Michael Ratta, who leads the FBI’s New York criminal division and whose remarks are published by the Justice Department.
How to report suspected hate crimes
The FBI is asking victims and witnesses to move quickly if they see or experience a possible hate crime. For emergencies or immediate danger, law enforcement should be contacted right away. Tips to federal authorities can be filed by phone or online.
You can reach the FBI tip line at 1‑800‑CALL‑FBI, and the agency’s FBI hate-crimes page outlines how federal investigators coordinate with local partners to pursue bias-motivated offenses. The bureau says video, photos, or other documentation can be crucial in the early stages of an investigation.
What qualifies as a federal hate crime
Federal law, including the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act codified at 18 U.S.C. § 249, allows prosecutors to bring federal charges when someone “willfully causes bodily injury” because of the victim’s protected status, the Justice Department explains.
That standard is relatively high. Offensive or hateful speech alone does not automatically amount to a federal crime. To bring federal hate-crime charges, prosecutors have to show that an assault or similar act of violence was motivated by bias.
Local security context
The hate-crime reminder is one of several safety advisories coming from federal field offices as the tournament unfolds. Alongside the bias-crime warnings, agencies have cautioned fans and residents about drone no-fly zones, fake ticket scams, and have set up multiagency command centers to keep match days running smoothly.
Drone no-fly warnings tracked by local reporters show the FBI and other agencies working closely with stadium operators and transit officials to manage crowds and airspace.
If you see suspicious behavior, authorities say you should call 911 if there is any immediate danger, then follow up with a tip to local police or through the FBI’s reporting channels. Early reports can help investigators preserve evidence, spot patterns, and better protect both fans and residents during the tournament.
