Immigration Status and Crime Victimization Report in the Tough on Immigration Era

• In Event: Roundtable: Immigration

Abstract

The growing number of immigrants in the United States presents unique challenges for the criminal justice system. Despite this, limited attention has been given to how immigrants interact with law enforcement, particularly in terms of reporting crime victimization during periods of heightened anti-immigration sentiment. This study investigates how shifts in the political climate influence crime-reporting behaviors among immigrants, focusing on two major groups: Asian and Hispanic immigrants. Using data collected from 165 Korean and 177 Hispanic immigrants residing in South Texas, the study analyzes responses to survey questions concerning their experiences with crime victimization, reluctance to report such incidents, reasons behind their fear, and the impact of anti-immigrant rhetoric. The findings aim to shed light on the broader implications of political discourse on immigrant communities’ willingness to seek justice and interact with law enforcement, particularly within marginalized populations facing both cultural and institutional barriers.

Author

• Daehoon Han, Texas A&M University - Kingsville