How do Hispanics in the US view their relationship with the criminal justice system?

Hispanics in the United States have a complex relationship with the criminal justice system. Many feel that they are unfairly targeted and discriminated against, particularly in the areas of policing and immigration enforcement. This sentiment is often linked to historical and ongoing racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal justice system.

According to a 2021 Pew Research Center survey, 70% of Hispanic adults in the US believe that the criminal justice system treats people unfairly. Moreover, 73% of Hispanics say they have little or no confidence in police officers to treat Hispanics and Blacks equally. In contrast, 69% of Whites and 38% of Blacks say they have a great deal or quite a lot of confidence in police officers to treat all groups equally.

Furthermore, Hispanics in the US are more likely to be stopped by the police than Whites, and they are more likely to be searched and arrested, according to a report by the US Commission on Civil Rights. This report also found that Hispanics are often subject to racial profiling and other discriminatory practices by law enforcement.

There are also concerns among Hispanics in the US about immigration enforcement and the impact of aggressive immigration policies on their communities. Many feel that these policies have created a climate of fear and mistrust between Hispanics and law enforcement agencies.

In summary, Hispanics in the US generally view their relationship with the criminal justice system as fraught with issues of discrimination and unequal treatment. Addressing these concerns will require a concerted effort to promote greater trust, transparency, and accountability in the criminal justice system, as well as a commitment to addressing the root causes of racial and ethnic disparities in law enforcement.