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Authors:David Lydon, Peter Emanuel Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. This paper examines the investigative challenges associated with the ‘County Lines’ drug supply phenomenon from the perspective of police practitioners. Two areas are identified and explored: the presence and role of autonomy, coercion, and exploitation, and the legal and procedural issues. The police response appears confounded by non-specific legislation, unintended implications of the statutory defence, problems with the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), safeguarding deficiencies, incomplete statutory guardianship, and limited recognition of neurodevelopment and neurodivergence among those involved. The research is relevant to law and public policy and will be of interest to investigators and criminal justice system professionals. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-08-19T11:03:45Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241275858
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Authors:Zena Rossouw, Ted Palys Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. This study provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted challenges encountered by investigators handling serial murder cases. Drawing upon insights gained from over 40 cases investigated by six seasoned professionals from the United States and Canada, the research employs a semi-structured interview methodology to understand the contextual dynamics at play. The results indicate that the primary hurdle confronting investigators is establishing a nexus between cases, often necessitating a probabilistic inference rather than absolute certainty. Once this connection is established, investigators grapple with a range of common obstacles, including securing adequate financial and personnel—related resources, high-risk missing persons, navigating evolving modus operandi, and effectively managing complex crime scenes. Notwithstanding these challenges, the study reveals that 75% of the cases that were discussed in detail were solved through the cultivation of an open-minded approach and the assimilation of insights from prior investigations. The study concludes by discussing the relevance of these findings and their practical implications for crime prevention and investigative strategies. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-08-02T03:27:28Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241269482
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Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print.
Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-07-19T08:29:39Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241261796
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Authors:Tom Andrews Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Following a governmental U-turn on the requirement for new police officers to have degrees, this article examines what happened within just 7 years to cause this; specifically from the perspective of chief constables. This is contextualised through social learning and followership, and examining best practice in police leadership. It concludes that with unambiguous buy-in of ideas - such as the requirement for professionalisation through education - officers accept them; but that in this example that was not the case. It demonstrates that where chief constables supported the entry routes, satisfaction rates were higher; but chiefs who obstructed their delivery ensured its failure. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-06-21T09:15:19Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241264665
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Authors:Joseph B Kuhns, Shannon Messer, M. Lyn Exum Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. A research team worked with a large urban jurisdiction in the southeastern United States, conducted detective interviews, developed process maps, and estimated the work hours associated with various phases of homicide investigations. The investigative process was organized into separate stages and presented as process maps. The average time elapsed for the initial investigative stage was 72.0 hours, while time to complete the second stage was 10.3 days. Plea-bargained cases consumed 12 hours of lead investigator’s time; homicide trials required an additional 13.2 workdays. These workflow maps and workload estimates could be used to help determine staffing allocations in similar agencies. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-06-03T01:45:17Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241258363
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Authors:Ricardo Tejeiro, José Luís González, Ian Schermbrucker Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. We analyse gender differences in police decision-making under conditions of time pressure and uncertainty. 290 student-candidates from a Police College in Spain, equally distributed between females and males and aged 18 to 25, completed three vignettes in which different scenarios, frequently encountered by police officers in their daily duties, are sequentially represented. Females and males did not differ in the amount of time and information they used before making a decision, in the adequateness of said decision, or in the perceived difficulty of the scenarios. However, females expressed less confidence than males in their own decisions. The results are discussed in relation to stereotype threat. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-05-31T06:56:58Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241258405
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Authors:Zara Quigg, Charley Wilson, Ellie McCoy, Nadia Butler Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Implementation of trauma-informed policing is developing at pace; however, evidence of impact is limited. This study examines the impact of trauma-informed practice (TIP) training (trainees, n = 358) across two police forces in England. 316 trainees completed a pre- and post-training survey measuring attitudes/knowledge relating to TIPs (229 matched for paired analyses). Compared to pre-training, post-training participants were significantly more likely to agree with statements relating to trauma-informed knowledge/attitudes (effect sizes: medium-large). The study suggests positive impacts of training. Further evaluation is required to determine wider impacts for police forces and partners, those encountering the criminal justice system, and the wider community. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-05-31T02:57:09Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241258388
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Authors:Silke Kuehl, Lucy Cooper, Susanna Every-Palmer Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. This qualitative study explored New Zealand police, paramedic and mental health staff’s experiences of co-response (when these three agencies work together to respond to suicide/mental health-related crises) and how this compared to usual practice. Themes were identified from 24 in-depth interviews using thematic analysis. ‘Dread, fear and failure’ encapsulated the reactions toward usual practice, characterized by fears of inadequate support, coercive measures, risk and poor outcomes. The ‘gamechanger’ co-response model provided police and paramedics with supportive and accessible mental health expertise. Participants felt safer and better able to provide person-and family-centered input. Continuation and extension of co-response models are recommended. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-05-15T07:03:03Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241253965
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Authors:Christopher E Kelly, Margarita Parker, Nathan Meehan, Michael McClary Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. This review organises the literature on presenting evidence in police interviews for researchers and practitioners to capture the breadth of the topic, and it is organised around the question of why evidence is presented during an interview. The literature was also coded for what type of evidence is presented and with what technique, when evidence is presented, and how it is presented. We found no support for the notion that presenting evidence will overcome resistance and is likely to increase it, presenting evidence gradually and in a challenging manner is the most effective approach to credibility assessment and information disclosure. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-04-17T12:04:14Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241243286
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Authors:Mohammadali Tofighi, Ali Asgary, Ahmad Mohammadi, Felippe Cronemberger, Brady Podloski, Peter Y. Park, Xia Liu, Abir Mukherjee Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. This study explores roadside collision risks among Canadian police officers, investigating concerns, contributing factors, training, and technology adoption. A survey of 59 officers on traffic-related assignments reveals that 19 officers experienced at least one real collision (30 real collisions in total), and all of them experienced at least one near-miss collision (136 near miss collisions in total) during their services. In 86% of all collisions, cars approached from behind. While 81% of officers received minimal collision prevention training, 87% acknowledged the benefits of a collision warning device, emphasizing the need for comprehensive training and technology implementation to enhance officer safety. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-04-17T11:04:47Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241246970
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Authors:Michelle Dougherty, Meghan O’Leary, Elizabeth A Mumford Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Law enforcement officers experience high rates of stress associated with their work, potentially leading to alcohol use as a means of coping. Using data from a nationally representative survey of law enforcement officers in the U.S., we found that adjusted odds of binge drinking monthly or more frequently increased significantly with higher levels of administrative stress and each additional type of critical incident reported. Increased officer resilience had a significant association with decreased adjusted odds of binge drinking monthly or more frequently. Strategies for reducing stressors and building resiliency are important for reducing binge drinking and improving wellness among officers. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-04-02T07:54:11Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241244612
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Authors:Paige Monaghan, Sara Waring, Susan Giles, Freya O’Brien Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Responsibility for responding to missing children belongs to multiple agencies, including police, children’s homes and social services, but evidence highlights issues with collaboration. The following scoping review seeks to identify what is currently known about mechanisms that enhance collaboration in responding to missing. Findings highlight the value of (i) information-sharing techniques; (ii) cross-agency technology; (iii) single points of contact; (iv) regular multi-agency meetings; (v) shared understanding of terminology; (vi) clarifying roles and responsibilities; and (vii) joint training. However, research is needed that empirically tests the effectiveness of strategies and interventions for improving inter-agency working in this risky and uncertain context. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-03-20T02:42:41Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241241016
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Authors:Coral J Dando, Anthony Jones, Nick Harvey, Rebecca Milne Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. The County Lines (CL) drug supply model is a rapidly increasing threat. Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime have developed a statistical formula, referred to as ‘Orochi impact formula’ for conservatively quantifying the quantity and monetary value of drugs sold per line. The novel formula, which uses known average daily consumption rates of Class A drug and customer demand telephony data, conservatively indicates deal line trade, systematically differentiating between deal lines to quantify the relative impact of each. This evidence-based approach has potential for supporting (i) prosecution of line holders, (ii) determining sentencing deterrents, and (iii) wider public information and knowledge exchange. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-03-15T06:08:51Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241239017
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Authors:Ian Stuart Durrant Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. When interviewed, three groups of police officers and staff reframed a complaint from a colleague about being the subject of jokes and tricks as banter. For them, banter was a signifier of in-group acceptance. However, a closer analysis suggests that far from being a benign form of camaraderie, banter is often used to create and maintain an exclusionary masculine culture which police officers and staff are reluctant to challenge. Drawing parallels with sexual harassment and racism, this paper concludes by suggesting that as part of a toxic culture, banter can represent a form of institutionalised bullying. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-02-22T01:12:28Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241231711
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Authors:Isabella Karayel Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print.
Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-02-15T09:32:59Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241234162
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Authors:Lee Moffett, Gavin E Oxburgh, Paul Dresser, Fiona Gabbert Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Human source intelligence (HUMINT) practitioners are concerned with detecting informant deception, and previous research indicates that the verbal content of an informant’s narrative can be used to identify potential deceit. The current study extends previous research by analysing the narrative structure and narrative identity of accounts provided by 22 participants undertaking the role of a mock-informant. Results indicate that deception affects the structure of a mock-informant narrative, with deceptive mock-informants employing abstract introductions and evaluative remarks to withhold information and to distract their listeners with emotional content. Additionally, deceptive mock-informants are more likely to express a low potency narrative role, such as a victim or tragic hero. Furthermore, there is tentative evidence to suggest that an analysis of narrative identity can also provide an indication of varying levels of motivation and cooperation among truthful mock-informants. These findings have implications for HUMINT practitioners in the field and add to the wider body of deception detection research. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-02-12T12:34:54Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241232880
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Authors:Imogen Elizabeth Grumley Traynor, Michelle Rydon-Grange Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Police officers are often unwilling to seek psychological support when needed. This scoping review explored research into the correlates of police help-seeking attitudes. Searches returned 1754 initial results, with 21 quantitative, peer-reviewed studies retained (published 1995–2022 across six countries; of moderate quality). The most consistent positive associates of police help-seeking attitudes were past help-seeking, perceived service availability, and having a mental health diagnosis. Current PTSD symptoms were the most consistent negative associate. However, of the 102 correlates identified, most were under-researched and/or had inconsistent findings. The operationalisation of terms also varied greatly. High-quality replication of current research is now needed. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-02-08T10:53:20Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241230762
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Authors:Emily Barney, Emma Treby, Gary Johannes, Kerry Seymour Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Background: The mental health and wellbeing of police personnel has received increased attention over the last 5 years and rates of mental illness amongst employees are high. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental illnesses within the police force, yet little is known about how effective psychotherapeutic interventions are in treating the symptoms of these mental illnesses in police personnel, that is, how many police personnel recover from anxiety and depression after completing a course of psychotherapy. In the psychotherapy outcome literature, recovery rates for anxiety and depression in clinical samples following treatment are low, between 37% and 47%, suggesting similar outcomes can be expected within the police force using current therapy models. Further research into new or unused interventions is therefore needed to improve recovery rates within the police force. Method: This pilot study explored how a new type of psychotherapy, online Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH), can support the wellbeing of police personnel and effectively treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. A quantitative design was used to measure changes in anxiety (GAD-7) and depression (PHQ-9) symptom severity at pre- and post-intervention and measure changes in wellness using a rating scale (Life Wellness Indicator Tool) at the end of each session. Results: A total of 42 police personnel, both officers and staff, participated in the study and 20 qualified SFH therapists delivered the online intervention. The main finding was that 78% of police personnel who completed a course of SFH and started with clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and/or depression had recovered from their illness following the intervention (i.e. scored below 5 on at least one outcome measure). A total of 97.2% of participants achieved ‘wellness’ after the intervention, compared to 19% at pre-intervention and no participants experienced an increase in symptom scores after completing the intervention. Conclusion: Online Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) can support the wellbeing of both police officers and staff and effectively treat the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our findings suggest that SFH is an effective, well liked and safe intervention to use within the police force and provides support for more resources into a larger randomised controlled trial. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-01-23T12:21:26Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241228493
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Authors:Laura Boulton, Tia Simanovic, Michelle McManus, Dominique Walker Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Traditional UK policing relies on Peelian principles of policing by consent in which public views of police legitimacy are crucial. This study used a mixed methods survey design to explore the impact of the Coronavirus Act 2020 on public perceptions towards the police in one UK force region. The findings indicate that self-reported compliance with COVID-19 measures was significantly related to trust in local policing. Qualitative responses indicate that police enforcement of Covid regulations was believed to infringe on individual liberties while losing focus on ‘real crime’ and decreasing trust in police. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-01-19T11:34:39Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241228048
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Authors:Jim Foley, Alex Hassett, Emma Williams Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Policing by its very nature has been widely recognised as being inherently stressful with little that can be done to prevent police officers’ exposure to both primary and secondary trauma. Officers involved in the investigation of child abuse and sexual offences have been further recognised as working in some of the most stressful and demanding roles in policing. However, there has been little research within this high-risk group of officers which seeks to understand how they cope with both the organisational and occupational stressors they are exposed to, as well as which strategies help them to ‘get up in the morning’. Data were collected through twenty-three (23) semi-structured interviews, with Straussian Grounded Theory used as a framework to develop a model of coping. This study highlighted that although some officers were affected by the traumatic nature of their work, there were other risk factors present which appear to have impacted on them more significantly including ‘burnout’, ’compassion fatigue’ and ‘moral injury’. Protective factors were identified as ‘being in control’, ‘organisational, social and peer support’ as well as ‘having a purpose’ all of which impacted on an officer’s ability to cope with the work they do. The present findings extend our knowledge of key concepts relating to police officer coping which may help officers working in these high-risk roles to cope with challenges they face daily. Recommendations for further research on how to support this group of officers, as well as implications for practice are discussed. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-01-19T09:35:24Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241228491
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Authors:Zachary Towns, Rosemary Ricciardelli, Kevin Cyr Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. Canadian police services rely on their Emergency Response Teams (ERT) to respond to diverse calls for service, requiring ERT members to meet physical fitness standards aligned with the physically demanding components of ERT responsibilities. In the current article, we explore the different physical testing components of Canadian tactical teams to better understand the physical testing standards for ERT. We do this by investigating how members of the Association of Canadian Critical Incident Commanders respond to closed and open-ended survey items related to fitness testing for ERT members, consequences of not passing ERT physical testing standards, and how fitness standards are perceived as creating barriers to member retention and recruitment to ERT. We center our discussion on the need for a physically capable police service to ensure security, reduce risk, and enhance public safety and suggest potential avenues for policy changes tied to physical testing standards as ways forward. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-01-18T02:44:40Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X241228180
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Authors:H Jones, A Bandyopadhyay, N Kennedy, S Brophy, J Evans, MA Bellis, B Rowe, C McNerney, S Moore Abstract: The Police Journal, Ahead of Print. The Crime and Disorder Act (1998) requires the police, local authorities, NHS, and other organisations to share intelligence and collectively work to reduce violent crime. This paper aimed to explore opinions on linking police data with other agency data. Interviews were undertaken with individuals from police forces in Wales, UK. Barriers to sharing data with other organisations involve differences in the systems used to store police data and uncertainties around what is allowed to be shared. Overcoming barriers would allow data linkage across organisations leading to deeper insights into the causes of violence, and therefore intelligence that supports crime prevention.BackgroundThe Crime and Disorder Act of 1998 requires the police, local authorities, the NHS, and other organisations to work together on collective approaches to reduce crime and to analyse shared data to inform resource allocation decisions. Data sharing has been conducted on a per-project basis, but it is rare for whole population data to be linked across organisations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of linking national data from the police with national data from other agencies including health data from General Practitioners, hospitals, and Emergency Departments (EDs). In addition, this study explored the views and opinions from police service areas in Wales on using a single software system to cover all police service areas for public protection purposes and to facilitate sharing data with other agencies.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 36 individuals from the 4 police services in Wales along with representatives from the Violence Prevention Unit (VPU) and the Police Liaison Unit (PLU). The interviews were analysed using codebook thematic analysis to generate key themes from qualitative responses.ResultsTwo key themes and seven sub-themes were developed from the qualitative data. The key themes include the following: (1) Opinions on the systems used in the police for public protection including thoughts on the current system and moving to using one system. (2) Opinions on data sharing including what data should be shared, benefits of data sharing, barriers to data sharing (within the police and across organisations), and overcoming barriers to data sharing. Interviewees identified that a proprietary relational database, Niche, was the most used system for public protection, was highly regarded, and individuals felt that if all forces moved to the same system this would be a positive development. However, work needs to be undertaken to ensure there is a minimum dataset entered in each area as there is high variability in data quality. Barriers included not knowing what was possible to share and fear of sharing. An unambiguous framework endorsed at a high level of what data should and shouldn’t be shared was recommended to overcome this.ConclusionsThe main barriers to shared police data included a lack of clarity around data governance and what is appropriate to share. It was felt that sharing should be the default position and with support these barriers could be removed. Data sharing between agencies would require high-level support and unambiguous guidelines as to what data can be shared, with whom, and in what format. Citation: The Police Journal PubDate: 2024-01-04T11:58:44Z DOI: 10.1177/0032258X231220864