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New Study Exposes Racial Disparities in Traffic Stops Across Major US Cities

Washington, D.C., USA

May 13, 2025 1 Negative General

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A comprehensive report from Colorlines and The Marshall Project reveals pronounced racial discrepancies in traffic stops, finding that Black and Latino drivers are pulled over at disproportionately higher rates compared to white drivers in 20 surveyed metropolitan areas. The study gathered years of public records, showing significant variations based on neighborhoods, officer demographics, and time of day. Officials from several police departments dispute any bias, citing crime patterns and local policing strategies. Community activists respond that the findings underscore systemic issues requiring urgent reform.

What this means for you:

•	If you witness or experience a traffic stop you believe is unjust, organizations can guide you on filing a formal complaint.
•	Engaging in local town halls or review board meetings fosters accountability and transparency around police practices.
•	In the meantime, read your city’s policing data if available, or request it under public records law.

Key Entities

• Colorlines: A daily news site covering racial justice issues, founded in 1998. It focuses on social justice, politics, and culture.
• The Marshall Project: A nonprofit journalism outlet dedicated to covering the US criminal justice system.

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New Study Exposes Racial Disparities in Traffic Stops Across Major US Cities

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