Policing Immigrant Communities

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the experiences of recent immigrants (1.5 and second generation included) in the neighborhood. The life stories of “Kwesi,” “Saikou,” “Gauri,” “Adriana,” “Manny,” and “Ralphie,” originate from five countries spread across three continents; with some having spent a significant amount of time in the country of origin, others only getting glimpses of their parents’ country through secondhand stories told at the dinner table. Through these narratives, this chapter details how their lack of social capital in the neighborhood, coupled with the strength of ethnic group ties, can work to provide a protective buffer between immigrant groups and police.