Reported hate crime incidents in California witnessed a significant uptick of 20.2% in 2022 compared to the previous year. Specifically, crimes based on sexual orientation surged by 29%, while those targeting Black residents increased by 27.1%. These findings come from a report released on Tuesday in Los Angeles by Attorney General Rob Bonta.
In response to these alarming statistics, Bonta stated, “This report serves as a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done in combating hate within our state. I implore local partners and law enforcement to thoroughly review these findings and renew their commitment to taking action.”
Additionally, Bonta issued a bulletin alongside the report to law enforcement agencies across California, providing an updated summary of the state laws addressing hate crimes and related acts.
Bonta further emphasized, “Our office continues to collaborate with law enforcement, elected leaders, and community organizations throughout the state to raise awareness and bolster responses to hate crimes.”
He added, “An attack against any one of us is an attack against all of us. The concerning increase in crimes committed against Black, LGBTQ+, and Jewish individuals for the second consecutive year highlights the urgent need for our communities to unite against hatred. It takes a collective effort to combat extremism and nurture a safe and inclusive environment for all Californians. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we stand together—there is no place for hate in California.”
According to the report, the total number of reported hate crime incidents in the state escalated from 1,763 in 2021 to 2,120 last year. Among these incidents, Black individuals were the most frequently targeted group, with 652 crimes reported in 2022, marking an increase from 513 in 2021.
Sexual orientation-based hate crime incidents rose from 303 in 2021 to 391 in 2022, while those targeting Jewish individuals rose by 24.3%, from 152 in 2021 to 189 in 2022. Additionally, anti-transgender incidents increased from 38 in 2021 to 59 in 2022.
Notably, hate crime incidents directed at Asians, who faced heightened hate during the COVID-19 pandemic, witnessed a substantial decline between 2021 and 2022. The incidents dropped by 43.3%, from 247 in 2021 to 140 in 2022.
It is important to note that the AG’s Office defines hate crime incidents as single occurrences that could involve multiple hate crime offenses.
The report also revealed a 5.9% rise in the number of hate crimes referred for prosecution in the state, increasing from 610 in 2021 to 647 in 2022.
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