NCJ Number
113061
Date Published
1988
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This 1986 survey of 281 police chiefs and 207 sheriffs (76 and 68 percent return rates, respectively) examined criminal justice problems, workloads, operations and procedures, and staffing.
Abstract
Respondents ranked staff shortages as their most serious problem, followed by prison overcrowding, and public lack of understanding. Law enforcement workloads have increased significantly over the past 3 years. More than 80 percent of law enforcement agencies nationwide experienced increases in calls for service and in cases requiring investigation by detectives. Increased arrests for drugs, driving under the influence, and domestic assault contributed to workload increases. A majority of respondents also felt that the release of offenders from crowded facilities also created workload problems. A majority of respondents also identified training and technical assistance needs in the areas of drug enforcement, computer crime, and management-union relations. Half of sheriffs and 45 percent of police cited a need for training or assistance in handling arrestees with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Victim assistance programs within the department were reported by 95 percent of police and 58 percent of sheriff's departments. The most commonly provided services included distribution of printed materials, referral, notifying victims about case status, and providing notice on court dates. Frequently mentioned workload management techniques included prioritization systems, differential response projects, and telephone response units. Major operational needs identified included more patrol officer investigation and directed patrols, financing for drug investigations, and performance and productivity information. In addition to staff shortages, problems were noted in staff recruitment and retention. 6 exhibits and 7 notes.