Policing in Israel: Sentiments of Police Relations with the Local Populace

• In Event: 600 - Section on Crime, Law and Deviance Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02. Police Representation, Crime, and Communities

Abstract

Israel is a deeply divided society between its Arab and Jewish populations, which differ both politically and culturally. Given the context of such a deeply divided society, public perceptions of the Israeli police are valuable in facilitating reform efforts. Yet, it is important to meticulously study public perceptions to gain a better understanding of the complexities between and within different populations. Through 26 focus groups held in Israel with the local populace, we comparatively investigate public-police relations amongst distinct ethnic groups and within varying community contexts. This study provides insight into public opinions regarding police attitudes toward particular groups, sources of dissatisfaction with police service, and factors believed to impact police functionality.

Authors

• Janet Garcia, State University of New Jersey-Rutgers

• Kashea Pegram, State University of New Jersey-Rutgers