NCJ Number
240040
Journal
Criminal Justice Studies Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2012 Pages: 177-189
Date Published
June 2012
Length
13 pages
Annotation
With the growing population of Hispanics this study examines race and ethnicity in criminal justice research.
Abstract
As the Hispanic population in the USA grows, studies illustrate the importance of extending dichotomous examinations of race in criminal justice research. The current study seeks to build on this growing body of scholarship. Using data from the 2008 National Incident-Based Reporting System, the authors examine if victim race and ethnicity affects police clearance of nonlethal violent crimes (sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, and simple assault). The authors draw on the victim-devaluing perspective as well as perceptions of police legitimacy in the Hispanic community to explain the results. Findings indicate that the race and ethnicity of the victim are related to police clearance of cases although the relationship between clearance and case solvability factors is stronger. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.