This data analysis, part of the Death in Custody Reporting Act (DCRA) Study, uses qualitative evidence from interviews to understand deaths in custody and reduce the number of deaths in the future.
This analysis is part of the Death in Custody Reporting Act (DCRA) Study, which is designed to generate significant advances in the knowledge and understanding of deaths in custody and to develop recommendations that support efforts to prevent and reduce such deaths. Analyzing 89 interviews with practitioners holding a variety of positions, the authors identified common themes related to training, de-escalation, less-than-lethal tools and defensive tactics, medical first aid provisions, staffing, accountability, and the population served. Respondents viewed clearly defined policies centered around de-escalation and a culture that supports de-escalation and training as critical. Delivering comprehensive, consistent, and scenario-based training was seen as important in preparing officers for different situations. Respondents specifically mentioned trainings that teach verbal and physical de-escalation techniques, how to identify and respond to individuals of varied backgrounds or who may be in crisis, and first aid medical care as valuable parts of their curricula to improve interactions with community members and lead to better outcomes. Respondents also viewed partnerships with social workers and other mental health professionals as force multipliers in connecting with individuals in crisis and resolving situations before they become critical. Strong accountability mechanisms, including early intervention systems, body-worn camera reviews, and oversight committees served an important role in holding officers accountable to policy and promoting continuous quality improvement of training and practice. Challenges identified by respondents included difficulties recruiting and training high-quality personnel who possess effective communication and other soft skills; engaging individuals experiencing homelessness or a mental health crisis or who are under the influence of substances; having adequate facilities and resources to provide the varied and consistent training to staff without compromising the ability to respond to calls for service; and ensuring that practice and training keep pace with the often frequent changes in law and agency policy.