The Right Tool for the Job: Evaluating Police Experiences of a Pilot Tool for Responding to Stalking

Abstract

Abstract This research aimed to evaluate the rollout of a pilot Stalking Screen Tool (SST) across two police forces in southern England (Surrey and Sussex Police). The mixed-method approach to this evaluation consisted of several stages which included the analysis of existing crime data; conducting a survey (N = 102) of officers who were part of the pilot and; in-depth qualitative interviews (N = 10) with officers experienced in policing stalking from the pilot forces. The results indicated a relationship between longer terms of service and not seeing the utility of the SST. Ultimately, the research supports the need for tools like the piloted SST with the potential to assist law enforcement to police stalking effectively, albeit also pinpointing areas where such tools could be amended to better reflect the realities of policing stalking. The results further suggest the need for improved training for police on tools like the SST in order to ensure effective implementation.