The Big Picture

Police use of force is a complex issue, compounded by inconsistent data collection and reporting standards across jurisdictions. This lack of standardization hampers meaningful comparisons and the ability to identify systemic issues such as racial disparities or trends in excessive use of force. This study explores how standardizing police use-of-force data can improve transparency, accountability, and policy development.

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What We Did
Researchers analyzed the variability in police use-of-force data collection and reporting practices across several U.S. cities. The study examined current definitions, data collection protocols, and reporting methods, identifying inconsistencies that hinder statistical analysis and public accountability. Recommendations were developed to create standardized data fields and reporting formats to enhance usability for both law enforcement agencies and researchers.

1

Varied Definitions:

Definitions of “use of force” differ significantly across jurisdictions, ranging from empty-hand control to less-lethal and lethal force. This variability complicates comparisons and data aggregation.

2

Inconsistent Reporting:

Some agencies provide detailed incident-based data, while others only release summary reports, leading to gaps in data granularity and completeness.

3

Lack of Standard Metrics:

Reporting often omits key details, such as demographic information about those involved, the context of the force used, and outcomes of the incidents.

4

Technology Gaps:

While many departments use case management systems (CMS) like BlueTeam for internal reviews, the separation of use-of-force data from broader crime and service call data hinders comprehensive analysis.

5

Transparency Challenges:

Public access to use-of-force data remains limited and inconsistent, reducing opportunities for accountability and oversight.
Standardizing police use-of-force data is critical for:

1

Identifying systemic issues and disparities in policing practices.

2

Informing evidence-based policies to reduce excessive use of force.

3

Enhancing transparency and fostering public trust in law enforcement.

To improve data collection and reporting practices, we can:

1

Adopt Uniform Definitions:

Establish clear and consistent criteria for what constitutes “use of force.”

2

Standardize Reporting Formats:

Develop templates for both incident-based and summary reports, ensuring detailed documentation of each event.

3

Integrate Technology:

Leverage CMS tools to link use-of-force data with broader policing data for holistic analysis.

4

Promote Public Access:

Require annual public reporting of use-of-force incidents with detailed breakdowns and trends.

The takeaway?

Standardizing police use-of-force data will enable more accurate and meaningful analysis, improving both accountability and policymaking. By addressing gaps in data collection and reporting, law enforcement agencies can enhance transparency, build public trust, and ensure that policing practices are equitable and evidence-based.

About the Study

This research was published in CHANCE in December 2024.

APA Citation:
 Brault, E. E., Kelling, C., Bourgeois, J. W., Taheri, S. A., Jones, A., Charles, C., Belair, K. M., & Banks, D. (2024). Toward standardization of police use of force data. CHANCE, 37(4), 24–30. https://doi.org/10.1080/09332480.2024.2434438