Administrative Guidance and Control of Police Officer Behavior: Policies, Procedures, and Rules (From Police Deviance, P 13-28, 1991, Thomas Barker and David L Carter, eds., -- See NCJ-128045)

• NCJ Number: 128047
• Author(s): D L Carter; T Barker
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 16 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

A formal directive system in both verbal and written forms is essential for the administrative guidance and control of police officer behavior and should be based on a clear understanding of both the terms used and the role of these organizational guidelines.

Abstract

Surveys have found that many police organizations have inadequate directive systems or have no written policies, rules, or procedures. One survey found that written directives often were not current, not usable, unclearly written, contradictory, not compiled or distributed, not enforced, and overly inclusive. Such directives can ensure greater consistency of action, clarify priorities, enhance community relations, limit discretion, and address liability issues. Directives should be legally consistent and reasonable and should not over-regulate employee behavior or eliminate discretion. They should be evaluated with respect to their subject matter, structure, completeness, fairness, and legality. Such directives provide control, give guidance, and help protect the agency from liability, thereby providing an important foundation for responsible police management. 29 references and 5 study questions