NCJ Number
142194
Date Published
1992
Length
77 pages
Annotation
This article identifies the unique characteristics of "bias" crimes and presents a model for police policy, organization, and activities to respond to such crimes in cooperation with appropriate agencies.
Abstract
For the purposes of this article, a "bias" crime is defined as "a criminal offense against a person or property which is motivated, in whole or in part by the offender's bias against a race, religion, ethnic/national origin group or sexual orientation group." The author first identifies the unique characteristics and harms that distinguish bias crimes from other offenses. It then offers guidance for the implementation of a particular anti-bias response. To that end, there is an examination of both the successes and the difficulties encountered by various progressive jurisdiction in their efforts to combat bias crimes. Particular attention is paid to the role law enforcement can play as part of an organized and cooperative system that addresses these crimes and its victims. Data collection, statutes, sentencing, outreach, policy, training, coordination, and the implementation of anti-bias efforts by police as part of overall reforms are analyzed. 167 footnotes