Developing and Refining a Quality Assurance Process for Use of Force Data

• In Event: Quality Matters: Enhancing Use of Force Data, Processes, and Outcomes: A Case Study

Abstract

All official data in criminal justice is messy, and use of force data is no exception. This paper presents the process that the Bakersfield Police Department has developed and continues to refine to ensure that use of force data that the organization reports accurately and consistently represents the events that transpired during use of force incidents. The process requires a human touch to review and assess the various sources of information available and the ability to effectively collaborate and mentor those entering the data about what is expected and why the requirements are important. We present specific examples of the process and the work used to enhance the quality and consistency of the use of force data reported by the department.

Authors

• Nancy Fava, Bakersfield Police Department

• Stephannie Garcia, Bakersfield Police Department