Police in England and Wales ‘twice as Likely’ to Fine Young BAME Men During Lockdown

Police were twice as likely to fine young black and Asian men under the lockdown rules than their white counterparts, according to new figures that underline concerns about racial bias in policing. Analysis of fixed-penalty notices issued under the coronavirus regulations by National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) found that black, Asian and minority ethnic people (BAME) were 1.6 times more likely to be fined than white people. But for young black and Asian men the difference was even more pronounced. Young men aged between 18 and 34 from BAME groups were over-represented by around twice the rate of young white men, the study found.

The NPCC found 17,039 fines were issued between 27 March and 25 May, which represents only three fines per 10,000 people. But the rate for black people was 4.6 per 10,000 and for Asian people it was 4.7. NPCC chair, Martin Hewitt, admitted that the figures raised alarms and that individual forces should consider how they tackle racial bias. He said: “While it is a complex picture, it is a concern to see disparity between white and black, Asian or ethnic minority people. Each force will be looking at this carefully to assess and mitigate any risk of bias – conscious or unconscious – and to minimise disproportionate impact wherever possible.

Read more: Matthew Weaver, Guardian, https://is.gd/qdto4f