Police Legitimacy in the Community: A Thematic Analysis of Police and Citizen Relationships at the Neighborhood Level

• In Event: Context and Public Perceptions of Police

Abstract

Research and data associated with citizen perceptions of police legitimacy illustrates differentiation based on race, age, income, and geographical variables. This research examines community based meeting data regarding citizen and police relationships within a mid-size Midwestern city. Through the use of qualitative thematic analysis, this research explores perspectives of police legitimacy as perceived by gang involved adults, community police officers, community small business owners and former parolees at the neighborhood level. In their own words, community meeting participants explore topics such as the role of police community relations in regard to neighborhood violence, fear of victimization, weapon availability, discretionary police searches and police/citizen trust.

Authors

• John Walsh, Grand Valley State University

• Patrick Gerkin, Grand Valley State University

• Abbey Roach, Grand Valley State University