This research will explore how racial profiling through practices as the stop-and-frisk policing practices may contribute to the criminalization of Latinx youth in Los Angeles, potentially perpetuating systemic inequalities and reinforcing racial and ethnic bias within the criminal justice system. Latinx adolescents are disproportionately targeted under these policies, often being viewed as potential offenders rather than as youth deserving of protection and support. This study will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of public records with qualitative interviews and ethnographic observations to uncover the possible long-term social, economic, and psychological consequences of these practices. Particular attention will be given to how the stigma of police encounters might affect educational attainment, mental health, and community relationships among Latinx youth.
The research will also examine the intersectionality of race, class, immigration status, and age to better understand the unique challenges faced by Latinx youth. It will highlight the role of stop-and-frisk policies in perpetuating the school-to-prison pipeline and examine how media narratives and public perceptions contribute to these dynamics. By shedding light on these issues, the project aims to inform public policy, challenge discriminatory policing practices, and advocate for community-based solutions that promote equity, justice, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
