"Despite numerous studies depicting similar
levels of participation by Whites, African-Americans, and Hispanics in
non-violent crimes – notably drugs, weapon possession, and speeding - Bureau of
Justice statistics show minorities are arrested and incarcerated at higher
rates for these crimes. Because these minority communities are seen as high
crime areas, police focus on these neighborhoods. Not surprisingly, minorities
are besieged with recurrent police contact leading to extensive criminal
records for even minor non-violent crimes. I’m frequently invited to speak at
New York City schools in some of these same neighborhoods, and I hear stories
from youth who have regular contact with the criminal justice system, whether
they have parents or siblings who are incarcerated or they are themselves
stopped by police officers."
Innocence Project
