Hayward police have charged a man in an armored truck robbery that happened Monday. (File)
HAYWARD — A 33-year-old woman has been charged with two misdemeanors, including a hate crime, for allegedly threatening and brandishing a firearm at her transgender neighbor.
Stephanie Elbert, of Hayward, was charged with one misdemeanor count of exhibiting a firearm and another misdemeanor count alleging a violation of civil rights. The charging documents allege that Elbert confronted her neighbor, a transgender woman, and told her she had a “license to kill” transgender people, using a slur in the process.
The June 11 confrontation occurred at an apartment complex on Gading Road. It started when another neighbor vandalized the alleged victim’s property and was issued a citation by the Hayward Police Department.
Later that day, the alleged victim heard a commotion outside, and when she exited her home, came face to face with Elbert. The alleged victim would later tell police Elbert cursed at her and used multiple transphobic slurs, then brandished a gun and made the threatening remark, according to authorities.
When police arrived, Elbert was back in her apartment. Police received no response when they attempted to oust her but they eventually convinced her to come outside and be arrested, authorities say.
Elbert has pleaded not guilty and in out of custody while the charges are pending, court records show.
Originally published at Nate Gartrell