NCJ Number
154742
Date Published
1995
Length
116 pages
Annotation
This research project examined the status of peer review systems for police misconduct by the year 2003.
Abstract
Through the use of the literature search, follow-up interviews with topic experts, panel discussion, and case review, the issue was examined. The research suggests that if current trends continue, the manner in which police misconduct is reviewed and adjudicated will remain a critical issue. High profile media reports document law enforcement's and the community's concern with deteriorating ethics. The author shows that no single system can effectively address the range of issues in the adjudication of police misconduct; various systems must be pliable so they can be modeled to fit the organization they serve. Further, this research indicates that community-oriented policing and problemsolving require the empowering of line-level personnel. A peer review system for police misconduct is a great empowering tool. Sharing the responsibility of reviewing the misconduct of peers can cause people to assert self- accountability. Also, a peer review system for police misconduct will have a positive impact on employee relations. Once members of the labor organization have accepted a peer review system, they assume equal ownership. A peer review system for police misconduct can be designed and implemented without unduly diminishing management's right to maintain accountability in the ranks. The research suggests that this responsibility and accountability be shared. Appended supplementary information and a 36-item bibliography