Florida Reports Sharp Increase in Antisemitic Hate Crimes

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has released the 2023 Hate Crimes in Florida Report, revealing a concerning 36% increase in hate crimes statewide from the previous year, with a significant rise in antisemitic incidents.

The report, based on data from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Uniform Crime Reporting system, recorded 311 hate crimes statewide in 2023, up from 229 in 2022. Notably, antisemitic crimes nearly doubled, a trend Attorney General Moody attributed to heightened tensions following last year’s terrorist attack on Israel.

“Following the terrorist attack on Israel last year, the nation experienced an increase in antisemitic crimes. While Florida went to great lengths to protect our Jewish friends and family – hate crimes against them nearly doubled. We must continue to protect Jewish Floridians and all our citizens. If you know of a hate crime or any illegal act, please report it to law enforcement. You can remain anonymous by calling **TIPS,” said Attorney General Moody.

Hate crimes are defined as criminal acts motivated by bias or prejudice against individuals or groups based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics. Florida law imposes enhanced penalties for crimes proven to be hate-motivated.
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The full 2023 Hate Crimes in Florida Report can be accessed here.