Implementing Research-Based Police Hiring Policies

• In Event: The Role of Education in Policing

Abstract

In 2014, the Massachusetts Major City Chiefs of Police sought to gauge the level of support for a higher education requirement among the officers that served in their departments. Eighteen months later, 352 members of the police forces in six Eastern Massachusetts cities had completed a survey with results that showed strong support for a 2-year degree requirement for new officers. These results are being reported to the relevant Police agencies to gain cooperation and support to move forward with a proposal to make this educational requirement state law. The Massachusetts Major Cities Chiefs of Police are urging their members to reach out to their local representatives with a package that explains the benefits and support for this requirement. The Chiefs of Police are also forming alliances with other interested constituents and civic organizations to develop a legislative agenda. This coalition will work with interested state representatives to draft appropriate legislation and develop the backing of their colleagues. Once an acceptable package is agreed upon it will be introduced into the Massachusetts legislature with the intent of making a 2-year degree required for the hiring of all new police officers.
The conference presentation will focus on this action research process.

Author

• Aviva M Rich-Shea, Massasoit Community College