Santa Cruz man charged for hate crime, tells cops he only wanted “white person to help” take him into custody

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION)--A Santa Cruz man has been charged for a hate crime, among other charges.

On July 5th, Santa Cruz Police responded to an altercation where they say a black man was attacked by a white suspect who drew a knife and started slashing at the victim on San Lorenzo Blvd. and Broadway Street.

They say the suspect, 43-year-old Ole Hougen screamed racial slurs at the victim during the incident. The victim was able to fend off the attacker until officers arrived.

Hougen was arrested and charged for a hate crime and assault with a deadly weapon. Officers say Ole Hougen, only wanted a "white person to help" take him into custody.

But officials say that's "not an SCPD accommodation" as their staffing includes people of color.

Hougen continued to make racial comments and slur towards SCPD officers and jail staff during the booking process.

If a community member is a victim of, or witness to, what they believe to be a hate crime, call SCPD at 9-1-1 or (831) 471-1131.