TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey recorded 644 bias incidents in the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest report from the state’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, with the highest numbers reported in Cherry Hill and East Brunswick.
Key Points
- A total of 644 bias incidents were reported statewide from January to March 2025.
- Cherry Hill and East Brunswick each recorded 15 incidents, the highest in the state.
- Incidents were reported across both urban and suburban communities, reflecting widespread distribution.
Suburban communities lead in reported bias incidents
The UCR bias incident report, released by the New Jersey State Police, includes data from municipal police departments and sheriff’s offices across the state. The incidents are reported under New Jersey’s bias intimidation statute (N.J.S.A. 2C:16-1), covering both suspected and confirmed cases.
Cherry Hill Township and East Brunswick Township each reported 15 incidents, tying for the highest number in the state for the first quarter of 2025.
Authorities note that these municipalities’ population size and diversity may contribute to the elevated numbers, though no specific motivations—such as race, religion, or gender—were disclosed in the report.
Statewide distribution reveals broader trend
Following Cherry Hill and East Brunswick, other towns with high incident counts include Scotch Plains Township and Lakewood Township, each with 12 reported cases. Ocean Township in Monmouth County recorded 11, while Jackson Township and South Orange Village Township each reported 10 incidents.
These figures show that bias-related activity is not limited to densely populated cities but is also present in smaller suburban communities. The broad geographic spread of incidents emphasizes the need for continued attention across different regions of the state.
Calls for action amid rising numbers
Though the report focuses solely on statistical data and does not detail individual cases or motivations, the total of 644 incidents in just three months reflects ongoing concerns about bias and intolerance. Law enforcement agencies and community leaders may look to the data as a call for increased outreach, prevention, and education efforts.
Top 10 Municipalities by Reported Bias Incidents (Jan–Mar 2025):
- Cherry Hill Township – 15 incidents
- East Brunswick Township – 15 incidents
- Scotch Plains Township – 12 incidents
- Lakewood Township – 12 incidents
- Ocean Township (Monmouth County) – 11 incidents
- South Orange Village Township – 10 incidents
- Jackson Township – 10 incidents
- Ewing Township – 7 incidents
- Brick Township – 6 incidents
- Hacken sack City – 6 incidents
Cherry Hill and East Brunswick led the state in reported bias incidents in early 2025, reflecting a troubling pattern of hate-related activity in New Jersey’s communities.
Source: New Jersey State Police