A Woman who Hurled Racist Insult at Latino Man May Face Criminal Charges
In a recent incident caught on video, a woman in Santa Barbara, California, is facing potential criminal charges after hurling racist insults and making derogatory comments towards a Latino man. The Santa Barbara Police Department has conducted an investigation into the matter and has since referred the case to the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office. The woman, identified as Jeanne Umana, may be charged with trespassing, battery on a person, and a hate crime, as confirmed by Sgt. Ethan Ragsdale.
The video footage shows Umana confronting construction worker Luis Cervantes and making offensive remarks. She states, I live here, I am an American, you’re a Tijuanan, after entering a property without permission. When confronted by Cervantes, Umana claims to work for the police, despite having no affiliation with the department. The situation escalates further when Umana tells Cervantes, I have a right to find out who my neighbors are because I live here, you don’t. Cervantes reminds her that she lacks permission to be on private property, leading her to sarcastically say, Oh, arrest me. Umana then expresses her opposition to those who break the law before attempting to smack Cervantes’ phone out of his hand.
The video was shared by civil rights activist Edin Alex Enamorado, who called for action during a Santa Barbara City Council meeting. Enamorado urged the council to exert pressure on the District Attorney’s Office and the Police Department to arrest Umana for her hate crime, assault, trespassing, and impersonating a police officer. Acknowledging Umana’s impersonation claim, Enamorado questioned why she had not been arrested considering the evidence.
Following the video’s circulation, a significant crowd gathered outside Umana’s residence and the local police station, drawing attention to the incident. The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office will now review the Police Department’s recommendation and determine what charges, if any, will be filed against Umana.
As the case unfolds, it remains crucial to respect the legal process and allow the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. Ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their actions, particularly instances involving racism and hate crimes, is paramount in promoting justice and equality within communities.
