Poster #27 - Bridging the Gap: Action-Oriented vs. Community-Minded Mentalities and Behaviors in Cold Case Investigation Units

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

One key group in policing that has seen an increase in public and media attention but not research is the cold case investigation unit. These units tend to be more ‘bureaucratic’ focusing more on communication, community-engagement skills, and ‘desk work’. Thus, this is an untapped potential area for learning techniques and policies that shift the mentalities within police culture to be more accepting of new community focused policies. This study also seeks to address a gap in current research. The purpose of this study will be to describe the organizational dynamics and officer’s tactics, perceptions, and interactions for cold case investigation units using an ethnographic case study. Preliminary data analysis will also be presented.
This study will use the following research questions:
What are the salient actions, beliefs, attitudes, and social structures and processes occurring in these cold case investigation units?
What are the interactions, perceptions, and tactics used within cold case investigation units?
How are these beliefs, attitudes, actions, and policies different and/or similar to the traditional police culture?
Why are we seeing an increase in cold case units being created within police departments and what possible function could this serve the larger community and police relations?

Author

• Samantha Strine, Western Michigan University