"Hate crime" is a ridiculous concept ... just a matter of time before it becomes a "thought crime." The kid was assaulted, period, and the little bastards who did it should have the rotten apples rubbed in their hair and be sent to bed without supper. (Oh, wait, that would warp them, wouldn't it? Further, that is?) And yes, Wicca is a religion. A little odd by my lights, but then, I probably look odd to other people. As for this being a "new" sort of crime -- hah! I spent my whole childhood being pushed around and told I was going to hell by the friendly little baby Baptists at my school, just because my parents and I didn't go to church. So this is nothing new, just a new target.
I agree. I hate to be cliche, but your singing to the choir :) The motive is the basis for adjudication not the actual crime.