DC Records 62 Percent Rise in Hate Crimes

The reported crime rate in Washington, D.C. has risen to 62 percent compared to 2016, according to an FBI report on federal hate crime.

The figures show that in 2017 there were 169 reports of hate crimes in D.C. In 2016, 104 such cases were reported, and the number of reported crimes in 2015 was 64.

According to stats which came from the Bureau’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, there is a nationwide increase of 17.2 percent in hate crimes.

The FBI data shows that the largest factors for increase in hate crime involve race and ethnicity. The crime rate more than tripled from 2016 to 2017, showing an increase of 227 percent. Sexual orientation related crimes also increased by 35 percent. The reports for gender identity, religion and disability showed a slight decrease.

The crime figures for D.C. match figures reported by DC police—179 reports in 2017, which is a 67 percent rise from last year.

DC police figures show that 2018 might set a new record for reported crimes as the crime figures till October 2018 have surpassed the record for the same time last year.

“In recent weeks, we have witnessed the tragic impact that a climate of hate and division can cause. The FBI report highlights how communities across DC must continue to confront intolerance and bigotry, and continue to work together to build and maintain an inclusive and welcoming city,” said Doron F. Ezickson, Washington Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League.

MPD Spokesperson Dustin Sternbeck said that it was critical for leaders to be a part of the solution and condemn hate whenever it occurs. “The department’s goal is to ensure that all hate crimes are reported and investigated,” said Sternbeck without speculating on the reasons for the rising crime figures.

 According to the Report on Crime and Crime Control: 2017, 5,482 fewer offenses were reported in 2017 than in 2016.