Setting the Record Straight on Immigrants and Crime

Nov 19, 2009

Immigration Policy Center

The ongoing debate on immigration often includes allegations that immigrants are dangerous criminals, a claim which may be used to justify heightened levels of enforcement and mass deportations. The Immigration Policy Center explains how immigrants are less likely than native-born persons to commit crimes, and high rates of immigration are not associated with high rates of crime.

In addition, immigrants have strong incentives not to commit crimes while in the United States. The vast majority of immigrants come to the United States to improve their lives and provide for their families. PDF Version