NCJ Number
136070
Date Published
1991
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Bias-related crimes have increased in recent years and require responses that involve not only law enforcement, but also attention to the larger social, economic, and political forces involved.
Abstract
Incidents motivated by racial, religious, ethnic, and sexual bias have become a distinct category for investigation by anti-bias units in police agencies and prosecutors' offices in States and regions where the urban populations are large, diverse, and heterogeneous. Many of these units not only investigate and gather evidence regarding crimes, but also take active roles in promoting a climate of harmony and peace in the community by acting quickly to isolate the crime scene and working to restore calm. In New York City and other areas, hate crimes generate criticisms of law enforcement responses and concerns regarding bias in law enforcement itself. In 1988, the 550 reported bias incidents in the city included 167 committed against blacks, 163 against Jews, 105 against whites, 43 against homosexuals, and 48 against Asians and others. Similarly, in Los Angeles in 1988, the majority of racial incidents were directed against black people, while more than 90 percent of religiously motivated incidents were directed against Jews. Perpetrators feel rage against the target and may view themselves as protecting personal and community values.