NCJ Number
219706
Date Published
July 2007
Length
47 pages
Annotation
This study examined Arizonans' trust in police by reviewing national and Arizona-focused research literature; analyzing the results of 10 focus groups across the State; and providing the findings of a random-sample opinion poll of all Arizona adults.
Abstract
The majority of focus group participants said they trusted police, but group discussions revealed a significant undercurrent of wariness. This was evident in frequently expressed concerns about officer rudeness, arrogance, nonresponsiveness, bias, and the use of excessive force. In rating 15 scenarios of officer misconduct, focus-group participants were most troubled by officer misconduct that both broke the law and violated fundamental values of law enforcement, such as racial profiling, planting evidence, and stealing from crime scenes. The statewide opinion poll confirmed the Arizona public's general confidence in police. In rating the importance of five officer attributes, poll respondents gave the highest rating to "To treat the public with respect." Focus group suggestions for improving officer performance were training in proper officer demeanor in interacting with the public; making officers more visible to residents through such means as foot or bike patrols; promoting more involvement of officers with the community in nonthreatening or nonintimidating circumstances; hiring and maintaining a more diverse force; and offering more credible, responsive avenues for citizen complaints. Appended focus group questionnaire and a 35-item annotated bibliography