Evaluating Law Enforcement Training: A Groundbreaking RCT Examining Racial Disparities in Police Behavior

• In Event: AIR Opportunity Fund: Investing in Evidence to Redesign Public Safety

Abstract

The Center for Innovations in Community Safety at Georgetown Law is conducting a comprehensive evaluation to examine the impact of implicit bias and active bystandership training on racial disparities in police behavior. The study uses a randomized controlled trial design, a community-engaged framework, and mixed methods to understand the impact of law enforcement training on police behavior. Process evaluation activities include training observations and stakeholder interviews, and outcome evaluation activities include pre-post and follow-up surveys with police officers, observations of officers in VR scenarios, and administrative law enforcement data. Preliminary findings will provide important insights into the impact of training on police behavior, and inform law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and researchers about strategies for improving police training and enhancing police behavior to better serve communities.

Authors

• Andrea M. Headley, Georgetown Law - Center for Innovations in Community Safety

• Cassandra Ramdath, Georgetown University