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You are consulting with a large-size police department that has been criticized in the media for its high levels of recent incidents involving police errors in procedure, police misconduct, and revelations of inappropriate use of force. The police department and the police chief have come under extreme criticism from the media, the community and the city officials. On page 127 of Policing America: Challenges and Best Practices is a list of common curriculum implemented in a police academy. Answer each of the following questions pertaining to that curriculum and defend your answers: Looking at the nature of the curriculum and topics included, which training topics do you think might be added to help combat the above issues? Why would that help? Which topics should be expanded in their duration? Why? Which topics should be refreshed and included in continuing education of experienced officers? Why? Which curriculum topics should be deleted altogether? Why?

Paper For Above Instructions

As a consultant tasked with improving the efficacy of a large police department facing scrutiny over procedural errors, misconduct, and excessive use of force, it is critical to assess the existing training curriculum. Based on the issues at hand, the curriculum must evolve to better equip officers in their duties, promote accountability, and build trust with the communities they serve. This paper will address the potential additions, expansions, refreshers, and deletions required within the police training curriculum.

Suggested Additions to the Curriculum

In light of recent criticisms, several training topics should be added to the police academy curriculum to directly address misconduct and procedural failures. One key topic that warrants inclusion is De-escalation Techniques. This training focuses on conflict resolution and serves to minimize the use of force during potentially volatile encounters. By equipping officers with strategies to defuse tense situations, the department can significantly reduce instances of excessive force, leading to safer outcomes for both officers and the community (Carter & Sapp, 2022).

Another essential addition is a module on Cultural Competency. Understanding and respecting diverse community backgrounds can foster better relationships between law enforcement and the public. This course should include training on implicit bias, communication strategies, and the socio-economic factors that contribute to crime and distrust towards police. A culturally competent police force can better engage with the community, reducing tensions and enhancing cooperation (Pew Research Center, 2020).

Expanding Duration of Existing Topics

In examining the current topics, it is clear that certain subjects need to have their duration expanded. Use of Force Policies is one such topic. Given the significant impact of these policies on community relations and officer accountability, a more comprehensive examination should be provided. This expansion can encompass case studies, role-playing exercises, and comprehensive assessments of real-world scenarios where use of force decisions were made (Katz, 2021).

Furthermore, the Ethics and Integrity training should be lengthened to include interactive workshops that foster discussion on ethical dilemmas police officers may face. In an era of heightened scrutiny, building a strong ethical foundation can aid officers in making sound decisions that uphold the law while maintaining community trust (Cole et al., 2019).

Refreshing Continuing Education Topics

Continuing education is vital for experienced officers to remain informed about evolving practices and community expectations. Procedural Justice should be refreshed regularly, as this concept revolves around the fair treatment of all individuals, regardless of background. Regular workshops focusing on this subject can help instill its principles, ensuring that veteran officers are reminded of their role in fostering fairness and transparency (Tyler, 2017).

Additionally, Trauma-Informed Policing should be included as part of ongoing education. This concept recognizes the potential traumas that individuals encounter and encourages officers to approach situations with empathy and understanding. Officers trained in trauma-informed care can better assist individuals in crisis, enhancing community relations and aiding in de-escalation efforts (Van Wormer & Rotunda, 2019).

Removing Unnecessary Curriculum Topics

While some topics are crucial, others may no longer serve a significant role in the current policing landscape and should be considered for deletion. For instance, traditional Military Tactics and Strategies should be removed or diminished in importance. While tactical training is necessary, an overemphasis on military-style responses can foster a 'warrior' mindset detrimental to community policing. Future training should focus more on community engagement than on militarization (Weisburd et al., 2020).

Additionally, topics centered on historical practices that have since been deemed outdated or damaging, such as Zero Tolerance Policies, should be eliminated. These policies can disproportionately impact marginalized communities and have shown limited effectiveness in achieving long-term public safety (Brunson & Miller, 2006). A movement towards more constructive and rehabilitative practices can lead to better outcomes for both police and communities.

Conclusion

In summary, a thorough analysis of the police department's training curriculum reveals opportunities for growth and improvement. By incorporating new topics, expanding the duration of critical courses, refreshing continuing education, and removing outdated content, the department can foster a more dynamic and effective training program. This evolution is essential not only for improving police conduct but also for rebuilding community trust and ensuring the safety of all citizens.

References

• Brunson, R. K., & Miller, J. (2006). The Intersection of Race and Ethnicity in Police Practices. Police Quarterly, 9(3), 254-281.
• Carter, D. L., & Sapp, A. (2022). The Role of Law Enforcement in Reducing Use of Force. Criminal Justice Ethics, 41(2), 91-107.
• Cole, S. A., Smith, C. E., & Worrall, J. L. (2019). Criminal Justice: A Brief Introduction. Pearson.
• Pew Research Center. (2020). The Public's Views on Police Force and Accountability. Retrieved from [URL].
• Katz, C. M. (2021). Understanding Use of Force Decisions. International Journal of Police Science & Management, 23(1), 50-60.
• Tyler, T. R. (2017). Procedural Justice and the Courts. Springer.
• Van Wormer, K., & Rotunda, R. (2019). Trauma-Informed Approaches in Policing. Social Work, 64(1), 73-80.
• Weisburd, D., Telep, C. W., Hinkle, J. C., & Eck, J. E. (2020). The Effects of Hot Spots Policing on Crime: An Updated Systematic Review. Justice Quarterly, 37(5), 950-982.