The New York City Police Department reported that 55% of all confirmed hate crimes in New York City during the first quarter of 2026 were antisemitic, according to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

Out of 143 confirmed hate crimes citywide, 78 were directed at Jewish individuals or institutions. Overall hate crimes increased by 11.7% compared to the same period last year, even as broader crime trends declined. Jews make up roughly 10% of the city’s population, highlighting the disproportionate share of incidents.

The department recently updated its reporting system to distinguish between “reported” and “confirmed” hate crimes. Reported incidents are initially flagged and investigated by the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force, while confirmed cases meet the legal standard under New York state law following review with the department’s legal bureau. Officials say the change is intended to improve transparency and accuracy in public reporting.

In March alone, 42 antisemitic incidents were reported, with 32 ultimately confirmed. That marks a decline from March 2025, when 36 such incidents were confirmed.

Despite the rise in hate crimes, citywide crime indicators have trended downward. Commissioner Tisch said major crime has fallen 5.3% so far this year, while burglaries dropped 20.6% to one of the lowest levels on record. The first quarter also saw historic lows in murders and shootings.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani credited current public safety strategies for the broader decline in crime, pointing to targeted policing efforts and increased officer presence in key areas.

Officials say the data presents a mixed picture: overall crime is decreasing, but hate crimes, particularly those targeting Jewish communities, remain a persistent and disproportionate concern.