Kevin Johnson

USA TODAY

WASHINGTON — Attorney General Loretta Lynch appealed Friday to victims of suspected post-election hate crimes, urging them to report the incidents to federal authorities for possible prosecution.

“The FBI is assessing, in conjunction with federal prosecutors, whether particular incidents constitute violations of federal law,’’ Lynch said in a video posted on Justice's website. “We need you to continue to report these incidents to local law enforcement, as well as the Justice Department, so that our career investigators and prosecutors can take action to defend your rights.’’

Civil rights advocates have been tracking hundreds of incidents since last week’s “contentious general election in which communities of color and other groups have been targets of harassment, intimidation or worse.

Asked about the incidents Sunday during an interview on CBS’ 60 Minutes, President-elect Donald Trump said he was saddened by the actions and instructed supporters who might be involved to “stop it.’’

“I know that many Americans are concerned by a spate of recent news reports about alleged hate crimes and harassment,’’ Lynch said. “Some of these incidents have happened in schools; others have targeted houses of worship; and some have singled out individuals for attacks and intimidation.’’

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Earlier this week, the FBI reported hate crime incidents in 2015 increased by nearly 7%, driven by a 67% surge in such offenses targeting Muslims. The number of attacks involving Muslims was the largest since the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks.

“These numbers should be deeply sobering for all Americans,’’ the attorney general said. The FBI report “also showed increases in the number of hate crimes committed against Jewish people, African Americans, and LGBT individuals. Overall, the number … does not account for the many hate crimes that may go unreported out of shame or fear.’’

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