NCJ Number
114100
Date Published
1988
Length
114 pages
Annotation
This paper examines trends in the purposes and practices of law enforcement officer associations (LEOA's) using questionnaire and interview data, a nominal group technique, and future scenarios.
Abstract
Included are LEOA's formed for labor negotiations or political lobbying on behalf of active or retired officers. The results suggest that LEOA's will become more active in areas of officer representation related to all aspects of discipline. They also will continue to deal with current bread-and-butter issues such as wages, benefits, and retirement issues. LEOA's have discovered the need to influence political bodies; and, should they be unsuccessful at the bargaining tables, they will concentrate on legislative measures. Efforts at organizing will continue at the local level, but also will move toward State and National efforts. Further, activities will be undertaken not only by the rank and file, but also by middle and executive management. Recommendations are made to the California Commission on Peace Office Standards and Training for the creation of a strategic planning group and a technology review board. Strategic, implementation, and transition plans provide a blueprint for creation of these two bodies. The bodies would be comprised of law enforcement agency and association leaders and have the mission of developing programs and strategies for managing the profession's future. 13 tables, 11 figures, and 55 references. (Author abstract modified)