NCJ Number
193794
Date Published
2001
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the customary method for investigating citizen complaints against police and proposes a broader investigative approach that takes into account the various factors in the interaction between an officer and the citizen that led to the complaint.
Abstract
The "forensic" approach to the investigation of citizen complaints against police focuses on determining the "facts" of the incident central to the citizen complaint. This is necessary in the attempt to resolve any discrepancies in participant and witness accounts regarding what occurred. The investigation, however, must go beyond simply ascertaining the facts of the incident to explore the various values, beliefs, perceptions, and subjective reactions that influenced the citizen's negative reaction to the officer's behavior. This involves an effort to find ways to reduce hostility on both sides of the complaint process by improving the opportunities for communication and dialog between the parties (police and citizens), who are often separated by divergent value systems and socioeconomic conditioning. Beyond simply determining the "facts" of a complaint incident, a complaint investigation must provide opportunities for the parties to freely voice their reactions to what occurred and why they believe it resulted in an unsatisfactory outcome for the citizen. Such an investigative effort provides the opportunity for both police and citizens to better understand one another's perspectives and draw lessons that can improve future police-citizen interactions. 96 notes