Qualitative Investigation into Police Training and Use of Force

• In Event: Roundtable: Policing Strategies

Abstract

Recently, we have witnessed increased media attention on issues pertaining to police misconduct and excessive use of force. One area receiving international attention is that of Chicago and its’ surrounding neighborhoods. While we often question the institutional politics, policies, and practices of police departments, we rarely consider how the training received in the academy contribute to officer misuse of power and excessive use of force. Based on over 120 observation hours during one police academy training program, I attempt to better understand the daily training of a new recruit. Data reveal that there is very little consistency or oversight on the content presented in academy courses. Observations also reveal that training works to secure bonds between recruits using rhetoric that is both hypermasculinized and racist. Training is fear-based, providing messages that officers are a target, should ‘operate in the yellow’, and to always ‘cover your ass’. Framed as such, recruits are able to interpret all police responses as justifiable. Although exploratory, findings from this project will add to our knowledge about how the early path of officer training can impact excessive force on the street and what we might do to reduce such instances.

Author

• Jodie Marie Dewey, Concordia University - Chicago