Truth in a Time of Alternative Facts: Examining the Prevalence of Misconceptions About Crime in the United States

• In Event: Perceptions of Criminal Justice Policy and Practice

Abstract

Despite the relative ease of finding facts and data online, there remains much misinformation about crime in the United States. Whether misinformation is spread by social media, cable news, or politicians’ lies, misinformation can impact support for criminal justice policies and lead to the vilification and stigmatization of marginalized populations. This study examines the prevalence of misinformation about crime by using a national-level YouGov survey of 1,000 American adults. Implications for policy are also discussed.

Authors

• Omeed Ilchi, Purdue University Northwest

• Shamma Hickling, University of Maryland Eastern Shore