California Attorney General Rob Bonta has released the 2024 Hate Crime in California Report, revealing a 2.7% increase in reported hate crime events from 1,970 in 2023 to 2,023 in 2024. The report highlights significant increases in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities.
“There is absolutely no place for hate in California. Transparent and accessible data is a critical part of understanding where we are and how we can end hate crimes in our communities,” said Attorney General Bonta. He emphasized the importance of reviewing available data and resources to combat intolerance.
The report indicates that hate crime offenses rose by 8.9%, with victim numbers increasing by 8.2%. While racial bias-related events decreased slightly, anti-Black bias remains prevalent despite a decline. Anti-Jewish bias events increased by 7.3%, while anti-Islamic bias incidents fell significantly.
Bonta urges local law enforcement to use highlighted resources and recommit to addressing these issues: “Everyone has a part to play as we continue to fight intolerance in California, and I urge leaders up and down the state to review the data and resources available.”
The California Department of Justice collects statewide data on hate crimes under laws that define such acts based on various biases, including disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with someone with these characteristics.
Hate crimes differ from hate incidents protected under free expression rights unless they threaten individuals or property. Such crimes can be reported through various channels including the CA v. Hate online portal.
The report also notes potential underreporting issues due to incomplete data submissions from some agencies for 2024. It advises caution when comparing current data with previous years.
Key findings show an increase in prosecutions related to hate crimes from 679 cases in 2023 to 818 in 2024. Updated guidance was issued earlier this year concerning potential violence against immigrants following rhetoric perceived as xenophobic.
Bonta’s initiatives include launching the Racial Justice Bureau and engaging with city leaders across major Californian cities since 2021. The Office of Community Awareness, Response, and Engagement will host a virtual briefing on July 30th at 1 pm PT for further discussion on the report’s findings.
The public can access detailed hate crime data via OpenJustice.
