Residents’ Perspectives on Police-Community Relationships and homicide clearance in U.S. Cities

• In Event: Conceptual and Community Level Approaches to Violence

Abstract

Understanding the nuanced and complex association between police-community relations (PCRs) and homicide clearance rates is an emerging area of research, yet few empirical studies have investigated this intersection. This study moves towards filling this gap in knowledge by exploring community residents’ lived experiences and perspectives on rising homicide rates in twenty U.S. cities, identified as ‘dangerous’ by the World Population Review (2022; 2024). A mixed-method survey collected data from a purposive sample of 993 predominantly white (88.5%) adult respondents. Descriptive statistical analyses and content analyses revealed nearly half of respondents viewed crime as a significant issue in their neighbourhoods, with many having personal experiences of homicide and/or vicarious exposure to homicide as a result of knowing individuals affected by homicide. Economic instability, social disintegration, mental health challenges, and community-environmental issues emerged as factors perceived to be associated with increased homicide rates. While satisfaction with police services varied, a consensus emerged on the importance of fostering positive police-community interactions to enhance homicide resolution efforts. Participants provided valuable recommendations for improving PCRs, underscoring the critical role that community engagement plays in addressing violent crime. This novel research highlights the importance of honest dialogue between law enforcement and the communities they serve to facilitate better public safety and crime resolution outcomes. 

Authors

• F. Jeane Gerard, University of Westminster

• Ashundria Veronique Oliver, University of Westminster

• Coral Dando, University of Westminster