Decline in hate crime in Jersey - police

There has been a decrease in the number of reported hate crimes in Jersey, police say.

The States of Jersey Police said there has been a downward trend in reported hate crimes, from 61 reported cases in 2019 to 44 in 2023.

The force said 2024 was continuing to show a "downward trajectory".

Head of the community policing team David Turnbull said the decline reflected islanders' "dedication to a safer, more tolerant Jersey".

As part of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, the force said: "Hate crime is defined as any behaviour caused by hostility, prejudice or hatred, and can be committed against a person or their property."

Police said their StopHate programme was launched in Jersey in 2019 in collaboration with an awareness campaign.

They said "increased awareness prompted islanders to seek advice and support, and to report hate crime".

Mr Turnbull said the force was "proud" of the progress the island had made, but added that officers recognised "that our data only reflects reported incidents".

He said: "We urge islanders to report any hate crimes they witness to ensure everyone in our community feels supported and protected against hate."

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