Evaluating the Impact of Active Bystandership in Law Enforcement (ABLE) Training: A Nationwide Study of Attitudinal Changes and Likelihood to Intervene.

• In Event: Research to Advance Community Safety: Bridging Within-Systems Change and Transformative Justice for Lasting Impact

Abstract

Objective: Growing research suggests that police officers can provide peer interventions to prevent their colleagues from causing harm through misconduct and mistakes. This study examines officer perceptions of Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) in fostering a culture of intervention among officers to prevent harm.
Data/Methods: CICS collected 36,647 pre-training and 28,443 post-training surveys from officers participating in ABLE nationwide. Researchers analyzed perceptions of peer intervention, readiness to intervene, and shifts in attitudes about active bystandership. Using linked pre-post data, we conducted descriptive analyses, subgroup comparisons, and t-tests to measure changes over time.
Results: Findings indicate high response and completion rates, with officers demonstrating increased understanding, awareness, and support for peer intervention post-training. These insights have informed survey refinements and training adaptations for broader implementation.
Conclusion: Strengthening active bystandership within law enforcement can foster accountability and reduce harm. This study highlights the role of structured peer intervention programs in shaping officer culture and enhancing police-community relations.

Authors

• Cassandra Ramdath, Center for Innovations in Community Safety (Georgetown Law)

• Miranda Xiong, Center for Innovations in Community Safety (Georgetown Law)