"The Best Predictor of Future Behavior is ...": Examining the Impact of Past Police Misconduct on the Likelihood of Future Misconduct

• NCJ Number: 254238
• Date Published: 2019
• Length: 16 pages
• Author(s): Christopher M. Donner
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical), Report (Study/Research), Report (Grant Sponsored), Program/Project Description
• Grant Number(s): 2008-DN-BX-0005
• Award: Advancing Knowledge and Practice in Policing: A Longitudinal Platform for National Research

Annotation

Using a population heterogeneity/state-dependence conceptual framework, this study examined the potential influence of low self-control and prior misconduct on future intentions to engage in misconduct among a multi-agency sample of 101 first-line police supervisors.

Abstract

Previous studies have identified numerous correlates of police misconduct, but no study to date has examined the impact of prior misconduct on the likelihood of future misconduct. The current study found that across three types of misconduct, the results demonstrate stronger support for the state-dependent effect of prior misconduct. Specific findings, policy implications, and directions for future research are discussed. (publisher abstract modified)