LA County Reports Second-Highest Hate Crimes Total in 44 Years

Hate crimes in Los Angeles County have reached alarmingly high levels, with the **2024 report** indicating a total of **1,355 incidents**. This figure marks a slight decrease of **1%** from the previous year, yet it remains the second-highest total recorded in **44 years**. The **Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations** released the findings, which highlight significant concerns regarding violence against various marginalized groups.

The report reveals that **51%** of racial hate crime victims identified as **African Americans**, with the **345 anti-Black crimes** setting a new record. Additionally, crimes against **transgender individuals** saw a dramatic rise, with **102 incidents** reported, the highest since tracking began. Of these, an overwhelming **95%** were classified as violent.

Key Statistics and Trends

While there was a slight decrease in anti-Latino/a crimes from **145 to 143**, this number still represents the second-highest recorded. In a concerning trend, anti-Middle Eastern crimes surged by **118%**, rising from **22 to 48 incidents**. Crimes targeting women also increased significantly, with **35 reported incidents**, reflecting a **75%** rise over the previous year.

The report additionally noted a **27%** increase in anti-Israeli crimes, with **28 cases** reported. Notably, incidents targeting non-binary individuals rose sharply by **275%**, from **4 to 15 cases**. Both anti-Muslim and anti-Scientologist crimes set new records, while anti-Jewish crimes were the second-highest ever recorded.

Race, ethnicity, and national origin were cited as the leading causes of hate crimes, accounting for **48%** of all reported incidents, translating to **678 victims** in 2024. The report also documented a rise in hate crimes occurring in educational institutions, which increased from **139 to 147**, now accounting for **11%** of all hate crimes reported.

Community Response and Commitment to Change

County officials and law enforcement leaders expressed deep concern over the findings and reaffirmed their commitment to combating hate. **Lindsey Horvath**, a County Supervisor, emphasized the personal impact of these statistics, stating, “Each of these numbers represents a person whose dignity was violated and whose community feels that harm.” She added, “This year’s report makes clear that hate isn’t slowing — it’s evolving.”

**Helen Chin**, president of the **Commission on Human Relations**, remarked on the troubling trends, stating, “We are seeing a second wave of unprecedented data reflecting the impact of hate across diverse communities in LA County.”

**Sheriff Robert Luna** of the **Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department** reiterated the department’s dedication to community protection, asserting, “Hate has no place in Los Angeles County.”

**Robin Toma**, the executive director of the commission, encouraged residents to engage with the **LA vs. Hate initiative**, which provides victims and survivors with confidential services in multiple languages and informs hate-prevention strategies.

The findings of the **2024 report** serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges associated with hate crimes in Los Angeles County. As officials work to address these issues, community awareness and support remain crucial in fostering a safer environment for all residents.