Compliments or complaints: an evaluation of a community oriented policing practice

Abstract

PurposeThis research study evaluates an innovative community-oriented policing program, designed to enhance officer accountability, thereby informing the scholarly community and agency decision-makers.Design/methodology/approachA multi-method approach was employed, leveraging pre- and post-implementation data collection phases. Data were collected via surveys of officers and focus groups with officers, as well as interviews with agency decision-makers.FindingsWhile officers were originally resistant to the STOP Card program, postimplementation perceptions, evinced through both survey and focus group data, were supportive. Agency administrators were consistently supportive of the initiative.Originality/valueThis is a novel program, implemented by a university police agency set in an urban area. The utility of this and similar efforts may influence agency initiatives.