The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) is criticizing the NYPD's controversial stop-and-frisk policy, calling it ineffective and racially motivated.

According to figures released by the group, young black and Latino men made up more than 40 percent of stop-and-frisk cases in 2011, despite being less than 4 percent of the total population. Of those cases, 90 percent were innocent.

The number of stop-and-frisk procedures conducted also varied greatly by precinct. Researchers say the 46th precinct in Grand Concourse had the highest rate at 80 percent, compared to the 17th precinct in Manhattan, which had the lowest at just 28 percent.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the NYPD have stood behind the policy, claiming it takes guns off city streets and saves lives.