Commissions Examining Patterns of Police Misconduct: A Multi-City Comparison

• In Event: Investigating Police Misconduct

Abstract

This paper is based on a content analysis of several blue-ribbon commissions that have recently investigated police misconduct in the United States. We examine how the commissions frame the problem generally; the specific types of misconduct under investigation; how the commission researches and analyzes these problems; and the kinds of reforms advocated. Findings reveal important similarities and differences across the cities examined. Our research highlights the importance of examining commission reports as a type of police accountability, one that has been under-researched in the past.

Authors

• Amanda D'Souza, Rutgers University

• Ron Weitzer, George Washington University

• Rod Brunson, Rutgers University