To Shoot or Not to Shoot?: Exploring Whether Use of MILO Impacts Students’ Perceptions of Police Use of Force

• In Event: Experiences with the Criminal Justice System and Perceptions and Expectations of Police

Abstract

Due to recent events (e.g., Ferguson), examining perceptions of the police and police decision-making, particularly regarding use of deadly force, is a pertinent topic of exploration. This project assesses the effectiveness of using a MILO use of force simulator on students’ perceptions of the police and their decision-making processes when using force. It is expected that students who experience the MILO simulation develop better perceptions of law enforcement, and a better understanding of the decision-making process of police use of force. It is also expected that students will leave with an improved understanding of the role of the media and how this can affect perceptions of the police.

Author

• Veronyka James, Shenandoah University