Informing Police Practice through Action Research: Findings from the National Policing Institute

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

Across the United States, law enforcement agencies are implementing strategies to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of their practices. Integral to these efforts is the use of data to understand the nature of the problems within their communities or agencies and the most effective approaches to address them. Fully collaborative research partnerships can support law enforcement agencies in identifying these data-informed approaches. The National Policing Institute (NPI) is a national non-profit dedicated to advancing the delivery and impact of police services through science and innovation. This panel will highlight the process and findings from action research projects conducted by the NPI in partnership with law enforcement agencies that emphasize the review and analysis of available data to inform practice. Specifically, panelists will present lessons learned and key findings from projects examining officer use of force, implementing problem-solving frameworks, and evaluating traffic stops in jurisdictions across the country.

Sub Unit

• Area VI. The Criminal Justice System / 41. Police Strategies, Interventions, and Evaluations

Individual Presentations

• Examining Officer Use of Force in a Large County Police Department - Colby Dolly, National Policing Institute

• Implementing a Problem-Solving Framework to Enhance Community Safety: Lessons Learned from a Large Municipal Police Agency - Annelise Pietenpol, National Policing Institute

• Measuring Racial Disparities in Traffic Stops: Effective Methods and Key Findings - Ryan Fisher, National Policing Institute

Discussant

• James Burch, National Policing Institute