Is the Latino Paradox At Work In One Of America’s Most Dangerous Cities?

• In Event: Race/Ethnicity, Immigration, Illicit Markets, and Crime

Abstract

This investigation sought to determine if a cultural effect is providing a protective element against crime and violence within predominately Hispanic neighborhoods compared with predominately African American neighborhoods located in one of the most resource strained and violent cities in America. This analysis incorporated official crime statistics, gang data, victim and offender demographics, neighborhood observations, and responses from non-criminogenic city residents (n=160). Preliminary findings are mixed indicating the presence of several meditating factors across neighborhoods. Policy recommendations are discussed.

Authors

• Michelle Meloy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey--Camden

• Kristin Curtis, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Camden

• Mitch Larson, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey--Camden

• Shelby Tucker, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey--Camden

• Wayne Webb, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey--Camden