NCJ Number
137359
Date Published
1992
Length
81 pages
Annotation
This study was designed to address the status of cooperative training among mid-sized and small law enforcement agencies by the year 2001, considering both increased training demands and increased fiscal constraints in California.
Abstract
A review of the literature on training was conducted, and the study specifically examined what programs may be required to ensure law enforcement is able to meet the demand of changed training requirements during a period of fiscal constraints. Using the Nominal Group Technique, five trends were identified: (1) training demands continue to change; (2) municipal budgets continue to change; (3) the quality of training changes at a faster level in agencies with less resources; (4) salaries change; and (5) community expectations change. The following events were forecasted: training budgets reduced by 20 percent, end to salary reimbursement by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, inability to meet mandated training requirements, and demand by the gay/lesbian community for sensitivity training. The Palo Alto Police Department was selected to be studied as a model for the strategic and transition management process. It was determined that mid-sized and small law enforcement agencies will be called upon to meet greater demands with fewer resources and that cooperative training efforts among contiguous jurisdictions will assist in meeting future demands for increased training requirements under restricted budgets. Appendixes incorporate supplemental data on the study procedures and analysis. 17 references and 5 tables