NCJ Number
193774
Editor(s)
Michael J. Palmiotto
Date Published
2001
Length
490 pages
Annotation
Thirty-five essays examine the nature of police misconduct, its causes, how it affects the community, and how it can be countered and prevented.
Abstract
The first section of essays, "Introduction to Police Misconduct," defines police misconduct and discusses legal issues pertinent to police authority. The issues of police gratuities and police interaction with minority citizens are discussed in two of the essays. The seven essays in the second section, "Crimes Committed by Police Officers," discuss police corruption and review specific crimes that have been committed by law enforcement officers. Examples of severe and systemic police corruption are presented from the New York City Police Department and the Miami-Dade Police Department. Attention is given to police involvement in victimless crimes and sexual violence against women in two other essays. The third section, "Physical Abuse by Police Officers," contains 10 essays that discuss police brutality, police use of deadly force, and the dangers posed to citizens by police high-speed pursuits. The final section, "Police Accountability," contains 10 essays that address the various techniques and strategies that can be used to control police misconduct. These include thorough police officer selection procedures, training that includes a focus on professional ethics, effective procedures for investigating and sanctioning police misconduct, civilian oversight of police behavior, and civil litigation. Essay references and a subject index