NCJ Number
109610
Date Published
1986
Length
149 pages
Annotation
This study examines illegal aliens' involvement in crime in the western States, particularly California, and considers police strategies for dealing with alien crime.
Abstract
This study first reviews the recent history of immigration to the western States, including factors causing migration and a profile of the new immigrants. In a survey of police agencies in the western United States, California was the main emphasis for the survey. Only selected agencies outside of California were surveyed. The survey focused on illegal aliens' involvement in the seven major crime categories (criminal homicide, forceful rape, robbery, assault, burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft). The survey also solicited information on special programs that address each crime type in the areas of prevention and apprehension. Significant findings are that aliens are a significant factor in the crime rate; the alien population in a jurisdiction should be considered in determining staffing levels and deployment strategies; alien crime victims are reluctant to report crimes; police storefront offices in conjunction with foot patrol are effective in neighborhoods concentrated with aliens; community education, community watch programs, and other crime prevention programs should be presented in Spanish. 10 notes, appended supplementary information, 40 references. (Author abstract modified)