Challenging the Consensus in Policing

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

Objectives: Science advances on its mistakes, and requires challenging orthodox, insufficiently tested assumptions. Criminological research is vulnerable to groupthink, reinforcing empirically dubious narratives and methodologies. Scholars who critique dominant positions encounter institutional resistance. This panel convenes researchers who test entrenched claims in policing and criminology through rigorous methodology, confronting prevailing assumptions about interrogation techniques, K9 narcotics alerts, lethal force data, and rehabilitation.

Data/Methods: Papers employ Bayesian inverse probability simulation modeling (Papers 1 and 2), direct comparative analyses of multiple data sources (Paper 3), and a systematic review and critical synthesis of empirical evaluations (Paper 4).

Results: Paper 1 shows the empirical foundation supporting widespread interrogation reforms due to false confession risk is weak. Paper 2 identifies reliability problems and biases in judicial reliance on police K9 narcotics alerts, revealing probability thresholds significantly below conventional standards. Paper 3 finds systematic underreporting and in lethal force datasets, distorting research findings. Paper 4 reveals that many interventions yield negligible or insignificant reductions in reoffending, calling into question optimistic policy narratives surrounding offender rehabilitation.

Conclusions/Implications: These findings collectively challenge entrenched assumptions underpinning critical policing policies. Researchers and policymakers must critically re-evaluate prevailing practices, prioritizing empirical accuracy over accepted narratives.

Sub Unit

• Area VI. The Criminal Justice System / 43. Police Strategies, Interventions, and Evaluations

Individual Presentations

• Challenging the Narrative: Reassessing the Risk of False Confessions and Wrongful Convictions - Scott Mourtgos, University of South Carolina; Ian T. Adams, University of South Carolina

• Challenging the Police K9 Narcotics Search - Ian T. Adams, University of South Carolina; Paige Vaughn, University of South Carolina; Scott Mourtgos, University of South Carolina

• Challenging Police Killings Data - Justin Nix, University of Nebraska Omaha; Sadaf Hashimi, University of Nebraska Omaha; Jordan Isaac Cline, University of Nebraska Omaha; Colton D. Tinsley, University of Nebraska Omaha; Loganne Ditter, University of Nebraska Omaha

• Challenging Orthodoxy on Recidivism - Matthew Logan, Texas State University; John Paul Wright, University of Cincinnati; Hannah E. Meyers, Manhattan Institute

Chair

• Ian T. Adams, University of South Carolina

Discussant

• Kyle McLean, Clemson University

Organized by a Division or external group?

Organized by Division of Policing