Date: Friday, May 31, 2024
Unit: Intelligence Services
Case #: N/A
Today the Toronto Police Service presented its Annual Hate Crime Statistical Report, outlining an increase in hate crime reporting over the year before.
The 2023 Report identified a 47% increase (248 in 2022 and 365 in 2023) in the number of reported hate crimes, with global events contributing to the increase.
Of note in 2023:
- 59 people were charged in relation to 61 occurrences, resulting in 156 charges. 22 of the 63 occurrences (35%) reported on or after October 7, 2023
- Hate crime reporting for offences committed online or via telecommunicatio
ns doubled in 2023 when compared with 2022 - 14% of the reported hate crimes occurred at or on public transit locations, representing a 52% increase compared to the previous year reporting
- 18% of reported hate crimes occurred at or on school property, representing a 23% increase compared to 2022
In 2023, the Jewish community, 2SLGBTQ+ community followed by the Black community and Muslim community, were the most frequently victimized groups. Mischief to property, assault and uttering threats were the most commonly reported criminal offences motivated by hate.
"Hate crimes have an impact that is much larger than the singular offence, whether it be graffiti, harassment or an assault, the impact is felt not only by the individual, but also their family, friends, and community as a whole," said Deputy Chief Rob Johnson during his presentation to the Toronto Police Services Board today.
He added: "We know that hate crimes often go unreported and our Service is committed to ongoing education initiatives to address this issue. Community members are encouraged to report incidents of hate, prejudice and bias to police with the goal of working together with our Service to eliminate these crimes."
Some of the proactive initiatives the Service has implemented include:
- Hate Crime awareness video series
- Hate Motivated Graffiti reporting form on tps.ca
- TPS Hate Crime dashboard
- Translation of the Hate Crime education pamphlet
- Humber College poster challenge
The Annual Hate Crime Statistical Report provides data about criminal offences that are committed against persons or property which are motivated by bias, prejudice or hate based on the victim's race, nationality or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or gender orientation or expression, or any other similar factor.
The data is based on hate crimes reported to the Toronto Police Service between January 1 and December 31, 2023.
The report can be found on page 46 of today's agenda and will be published on the Service's website in the coming days.
Ashling Murphy for Detective Kiran Bisla
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