Police say use of racial slur clearly audible as they investigate racist incidents toward Utah team

University athletic officials said in a March 26 statement that as members of the program were walking to dinner near their hotel, a vehicle drove by and racial epithets were shouted at them. Then, on their walk back to the hotel, a vehicle slowly passed them, and the engine was revved as occupants again shouted racially disparaging words and threats.

The statement said, “many students, staff and other members of the traveling party were deeply disturbed and fearful after the incidents.”

The university officials said a police report was filed on March 21 after the incidents and they were working with authorities on the investigation. A university spokesman said Thursday that they didn’t have any additional comment beyond last week’s statement.

Coeur d’Alene police chief Lee White said last week that about 100 people were around the area the night of the incidents. He has said there are two state charges that could be enforced — malicious harassment and disorderly conduct — if someone is arrested. White also said he was working with the FBI.

Far-right extremists have maintained a presence in the region for years. In 2018, at least nine hate groups operated in the region of Spokane and northern Idaho, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Idaho senators debate resolution denouncing racism

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When a resolution denouncing racism and hate speech in response to the incidents with the Utah team was introduced in the Idaho Senate last week, several Republican senators expressed doubts about the accounts or said they were unfamiliar with the situation. They debated for about 30 minutes before voting to approve the resolution.