According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the incarceration rate for non-Latino Whites is 430 to 100,000 per population in Missouri. The incarceration rate for Latinos is slightly more: 481 per 100,000 population. These statistics may not seem extreme – until you compare them to the rate of African American incarcerations.
In Missouri, the African American incarceration rate is 2,160 per 100,000 population. That's approximately five times the white incarceration rate.
Nicole Chiravollatti, a St. Louis criminal defense attorney, described the disparity between white / Latino and black incarcerations as alarming. "The statistics are real," said Nicole, "Missouri incarcerates African-Americans at an alarming rate."
Understanding the American Criminal Justice Problem
According to Prison Policy Initiative, the American justice system embarked on an over-criminalization campaign four decades ago, resulting in more than two million unnecessary incarcerations today. In fact, this pattern of over-criminalization has given America the highest incarceration rate in the world.
Ethnic inequality in the justice system isn't an isolated problem. According to PPI, discrepancies between African-Americans and other ethnicities are a prevalent issue in every state throughout America, not just Missouri.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
More than ever, working with a skilled criminal defense attorney is imperative. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we understand the challenges that African American defendants face in court. That's why our firm is passionate about giving each of our clients the strong defenses they deserve.
To learn more about your legal rights and options with us, contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.
"If you are African-American and you have been charged with a crime in Missouri, hiring an attorney is going to be the most important and life-saving decision you will ever make," said Nicole, "We are standing by ready to save your life and protect your future!"