NCJ Number
69603
Date Published
1980
Length
402 pages
Annotation
This report evaluates the implementation process and impact of the prototype rules and procedures for police policy developed under a NILECJ grant.
Abstract
Based upon field research in 17 law enforcement agencies, procedures and rules were developed to reflect a rational, fair, and legal approach to a system of discipline for law enforcement agencies. The implementation was undertaken primarily in two sites (Albuquerque, N. Mex., and Lansing, Mich.) with partial implementation in a third (Denver, Colo.). The specific goals were (1) to develop the modified system according to the needs for each site with minimum dilution of the quality and character of the prototype; (2) to implement the system; (3) to maintain and monitor the system for 12 months; (4) to make measurements designed to detect possible improvements in the operational effectiveness of the new system, compared with the previous system; and (5) to make measurements designed to detect possible improvement in officer attitudes toward discipline. Overall, the system was found to be effective. Project results showed that the prototype system could be implemented and could result in improvements with regard to the administration of discipline and officer's attitudes toward it. Specific findings showed that there was an apparent increase in understanding of the disciplinary system. Respondents' perception of the system's fairness, however, was mixed. Nevertheless, during the trial year, disciplined officers resorted to the appeal process outside the new system only 3 out of 11 times in Lansing and not at all in Albuquerque. Little evidence was found to support the hypothesis that an improvement would be perceived in supervisors' performance of their disciplinary responsibilities, although the data show some interesting results about the changes in the amount of first-line supervisors' use of training and counseling as a substitute for formal discipline. Finally, there was moderate support for the hypotheses that formal charges made against personnel and sanctions recommended would be upheld in internal appeals. Data with respect to the upholding of charges and sanctions in external appeals were inconclusive. Some recommendations of the report include using the prototype as a basis for department policy, giving close attention to city charter considerations, State law, and local collective bargaining agreements, and recognizing that the process of creating and implementing an effective, new disciplinary system is a time-consuming and frustrating task. Getting the support of local government and involving the police employee organizations also appeared to be important to success. Data tables are included. Thirty-two appendixes provide sample questionnaires, interview forms, related correspondence, and other relevant materials.