Study Reveals Underreporting of Hate Crimes in Harris County

A Rice University study finds many victims prefer confiding in friends or family over reporting to police due to distrust and perceived inaction.

Nearly half of Harris County residents reported being victims of bias-motivated crimes, but only 31% informed law enforcement.
The study highlights that 47% of surveyed residents have experienced hate crimes, often motivated by race, ethnicity, or gender.
Distrust in police and belief that authorities would not act are the primary reasons victims choose not to report incidents.
Hate crimes in Harris County are significantly underreported, with local law enforcement documenting far fewer incidents than suggested by survey data.
Researchers recommend building trust between diverse communities and law enforcement and providing better resources for victims.