Length of Police Employment and Use of Force. Does the length of employment influence a greater use of force?
Location
Sydnor Performance Hall
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Start Date
4-17-2024 11:00 AM
End Date
4-17-2024 11:15 AM
College
Lynchburg College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Criminology
Abstract
Abstract
In recent years the excessive use of force has become a topic of concern in the United States with many examples being shared through social media. It is often argued if the problem lies within police departments or with individual officers. This study will see if a correlation appears between the experience of a police officer and the use of excessive force. While little research has been done on these variables this study will discuss that research and utilize data collected from 1998-2007 to see if a correlation exists between the two. Rational choice theory will be discussed in this study as a means to explain why officers use excessive force. The research does show that officers with less than 10 years of experience are more likely to be investigated for the use of excessive force. This study will answer why an officer with less experience is potentially more likely to use excessive force.
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Joseph Hoft
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Length of Police Employment and Use of Force. Does the length of employment influence a greater use of force?
Sydnor Performance Hall
Abstract
In recent years the excessive use of force has become a topic of concern in the United States with many examples being shared through social media. It is often argued if the problem lies within police departments or with individual officers. This study will see if a correlation appears between the experience of a police officer and the use of excessive force. While little research has been done on these variables this study will discuss that research and utilize data collected from 1998-2007 to see if a correlation exists between the two. Rational choice theory will be discussed in this study as a means to explain why officers use excessive force. The research does show that officers with less than 10 years of experience are more likely to be investigated for the use of excessive force. This study will answer why an officer with less experience is potentially more likely to use excessive force.