Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Pascarella Pascarella

Abstract

Abstract

Inequitable treatment by law enforcement officers has deeply impacted minority communities in the United States. Public incidents of abuse of power, discriminatory treatment, and excessive use of force have received increased attention, creating increased community mistrust of law enforcement officers. To help bridge the gap between communities and law enforcement agencies, this qualitative phenomenological study was conducted to examine the use and impact of the Policing and Public Safety Problem-Solving Programs. Data were collected through interviews with 12 retired police officers and 12 community members. Interview questions were related to participants’ perceptions regarding a breakdown in trust between law enforcement and communities and what factors cause such a breakdown. Analysis of the data collected led to the identification of three themes: (a) loss of trust between the community and policing, (b)lack of collaboration and communication, and (c) a need to provide positive influences to initiate communication and collaboration. These findings are significant and add to the existing research on this phenomenon. These findings were further supported by the theoretical framework of cultural conflict theory and social disorganization theory. The results increased the understanding of cultural conflicts and a lack of communication between police and communities. The findings of this study have potential implications for positive social change by increasing communication and trust between communities and law enforcement, leading to less crime and less instances of police misconduct or excessive use of force.

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