Institutionalizing the Use of Research in a Local Police Department: A Continuing Partnership

• NCJ Number: 190991
• Author(s): Lawrence F. Travis III
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 40 pages
• Grant Number(s): 98-IJ-CX-0068
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)

Annotation

This report examines institutionalizing the use of research in a local police department.

Abstract

This project sought to develop and institutionalize a "learning capacity" within the police department of Forest Park, OH. A collaborative effort between the University of Cincinnati and the Forest Park, OH, Police Department undertook the task of developing the skills and resources for continued analyses within the police department. The group worked to develop a geographic database, establish routine data collection and reporting capabilities, and assist in distributing geographic information system information. University personnel worked as facilitators, instructors, and consultants. In addition, a research assistant was assigned to work at the police department 20 hours per week to manage the system, provide requested maps, and train officers in the use of software. Building on lessons learned in an earlier partnership project, the study concludes that the continuation of collaborative research and changing the police department into a "learning organization" depends upon developing an institutionalized research capacity and practice. Tables, references, appendixes