NCJ Number
165539
Date Published
1996
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A community forum held in Charlotte, N.C. in July 1996 examined arson against black churches in North Carolina; discussed perceptions of race relations; and assessed the investigative procedures of Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials.
Abstract
Nine African American churches in North Carolina experienced arson between December 1995 and June 1996. North Carolina law makes intimidation based on race, color, religion, nationality, or country of origin or the teaching of intimidation a misdemeanor. Penalties may be increased when a misdemeanor or felony is committed due to these factors. North Carolina has a State human relations commission. Topics included the role of the United States attorneys, investigative coordination and cooperation among law enforcement agencies, the reporting of incidents, the motives of arsonists, actions taken by elected officials, prevention efforts, extremist groups in North Carolina, and the State's hate crimes laws.