Incident Characteristics of Fatal Forcible Entry Warrant Raids in the U.S. (2010 to 2016)

• In Event: The Evolution Accountability: EIS, Police Reform, and Incident Characteristics

Abstract

Following the recent police killings of Breonna Taylor, Amir Locke, among others, forcible entry warrant raids (FEWRs) by law enforcement have become especially controversial. In fact, many have questioned whether the benefits of FEWRs outweigh the dangers, especially when so many raids are conducted to find evidence of drug crimes. Despite the growing public outcry against this law enforcement practice, there is little publicly available data, and consequently, empirical research related to FEWRs. To address this gap in the research, the current study utilizes a public database of fatal FEWR incidents occurring in the U.S. from 2010 to 2016 to examine civilian/officer characteristics (race/ethnicity, age, gender), situational characteristics (time of day, if the suspect was armed, etc.), and local legislation. Additionally, this research will explore the most frequent authorizations for FEWRs, and whether evidence was ultimately found during the raid. This examination will provide a clearer picture of what motivates police to execute FEWRs, along with the individuals and communities that are impacted by them.

Authors

• Nicholas Perez, California State University, Long Beach

• Emilie Whitehouse, California State University, Long Beach