NCJ Number
105895
Date Published
1987
Length
129 pages
Annotation
This publication presents recommendations and suggestions for dealing with police-citizen violence and complaints that minorities are disproportionately the victims of police use of deadly force.
Abstract
The principal suggestions are addressed to police officers and police executives. These suggestions include the establishment of concrete values tailored to the particular community and police department that emphasizes democratic principles, crime prevention, and the preservation of human life. Recruitment efforts should aim at getting minorities in the same proportion as they are in the community and should encourage college graduates to apply. Recommendations regarding training emphasize the importance of officers learning how to analyze situations and make decisions, thereby minimizing the risk of deadly force. Open communication between police and the community is encouraged, with police trained to follow written procedures on using community resources, advising citizens, and encouraging accessibility to handle conflict, police are urged to learn negotiation methods and a written policy should enforce avoidance of arrests that provoke the use of force. In addition, police departments are encouraged to share their experiences on deciding a definite policy about the use of deadly force, and the handling, custody, and transportation of prisoners. Sample appendixes from local police departments.