Do Mosques Become Targets? An Examination of Crime Following the Boston Marathon Bombing

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Classical criminology asserts that people are rational human beings that weigh the costs and benefits of their actions. According to this theory, increased police presence should deter people from committing crime. However, previous studies on the impact of police presence on crime have been inconsistent. Recently, several studies have found a decrease in crime around popular tourist sites and religious centers following major terrorist attacks. Using data from the New York City Police Department, this study examines crime within 1000 feet of mosques following the Boston Marathon Bombing. We find that crime around mosques decreases significantly compared to the control in the week following the attack.

Author

• Brenna Anne Stone, University of Pennsylvania