NCJ Number
113056
Date Published
1989
Length
103 pages
Annotation
Case studies from agencies throughout the country examine personnel issues and problems facing law enforcement administrators.
Abstract
Judicial scrutiny of recruitment and personnel selection methods and criteria is reviewed, particularly as related to recruiting minorities and women, developing job-related position descriptions based on task analyses, and conducting unbiased background investigations. Design, development, and administration of fair and equitable promotion systems are reviewed. Obstacles to instituting truly objective performance appraisals are considered, including a variety of rating errors and a lack of predetermined performance standards; and methods for overcoming such obstacles are described. Also described are training programs designed to develop the skills needed by police administrators, managers, and supervisors to implement contemporary personnel practices. Issues in developing and implementing disciplinary policies and procedures also are addressed. Obstacles to change within police organizations are discussed, and methods for overcoming employee resistance and gaining employee support are illustrated in cases involving changes in organizational structure, computerization, personnel selection procedures, and employee benefits. Each case study provides background information, describes the particular situation, and lists associated issues and problems.