The changes implemented over the last two years are significant and represent a shift from traditional policing practices to a more modern approach. These include an increased emphasis on de-escalation tactics and the implementation of body cameras to increase transparency during interactions between police and citizens. The changes also include implementing best practices for using force, which calls for police departments to adopt better policies for de-escalation and the use of force continuum.
The implementation of body-worn cameras is one of the most prominent changes in policing that has been implemented over the last two years. Body-worn cameras are intended to increase transparency, accountability, and trust between police departments and their communities. These cameras have been shown to have a positive effect on public perceptions of police departments, as well as an effect on decreasing the use of force and citizen complaints (Alpert & McLean, 2021). Body-worn cameras have been found to increase efficiency by providing more accurate evidence for investigations and allowing officers to review their own actions. Body-worn cameras have been found to increase equity in policing by providing an objective record of police-citizen encounters, which can be used to investigate potential misconduct and ensure consistency in police practices.
De-escalation training is a relatively new concept in policing designed to minimize the force used in a given situation. The training aims to prepare officers for situations that may become volatile and teach them how to de-escalate those situations without resorting to physical force (Engel et al., 2020). It is intended to create a safer environment for both police and the public by teaching officers how to recognize signs of potential violence and how to respond appropriately.
Recruiting changes have also impacted police departments in terms of increasing efficiency, efficacy and equity. Many departments have implemented new recruitment tactics focusing on recruiting officers from various backgrounds and ethnicities rather than just the typical white male applicant (Engel et al., 2020). This has allowed departments to have a more diverse staff that better reflects their communities. By bringing in officers from different backgrounds and experiences, departments can reduce implicit bias and increase fairness in policing.
Use of force changes involves directives from police agencies explicitly outlining when and how officers may use force. This includes setting thresholds for when officers can use force, providing guidance on de-escalation techniques, and mandating non-lethal weapons when possible (Ralph, 2020). These changes aim to reduce the potential for excessive use of force, particularly against people of colour, and to ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the changes made in policing over the last two years are a step in the right direction towards creating a more effective and equitable criminal justice system. However, it is important to note that these changes alone are not enough to create the change that needs to happen. There needs to be a continued focus on increasing training and education for officers and increasing accountability and transparency within police departments. Only then can we ensure that police departments provide fair and just services to all communities.
References
Alpert, G. P., & McLean, K. (2021). The more things change, the more they stay the same: The Queensland Police Service as a model for sustainable policing reform. International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice, 45(3), 345-355. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01924036.2021.1899004
Engel, R. S., Corsaro, N., Isaza, G. T., & McManus, H. D. (2020). Examining the impact of Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) de-escalation training for the Louisville Metro Police Department: Initial findings. Center for Police Research and Policy. http://www.theiacp.org/sites/default/files/Research%20Center/LMPD_ICAT%20Evaluation%20Initial%20Findings%20Report_FINAL%2009212020.pdf
Ralph, L. (2020). To protect and to serve: Global lessons in police reform. Foreign Aff., 99, 196. https://heinonline.org/hol-cgi-bin/get_pdf.cgi?handle=hein.journals/fora99§ion=131
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