Law Enforcement Misconduct
Law enforcement abuse and misconduct takes a heavy toll and comes at a high cost.
Local government officials have incredible power over liberty and life, and abuse carries an extraordinary human cost. Moreover, abuse and misconduct erode community trust – particularly among Black communities that have experienced this for generations – and significantly diminishes the effectiveness of local government.
The Center team has worked with local governments across the nation on collective bargaining issues related to law enforcement. We have a deep understanding of how work and disciplinary rules can limit opportunities for reform. And we understand how financial incentives can work to promote greater transparency and accountability.
Law Enforcement Liability Reform
Abuse and misconduct result in fiscal costs to local governments in the form of claims, judgments, and settlements. For most local governments, payouts for abusive conduct come through insurance. And when claims go up, insurance premiums can go up. But there is usually a lag between when misconduct occurs and when a local government pays. And there is also a lag from when local governments may take steps to curb abuse and liability and when they see the financial benefit.
But what if insurance was leveraged to strengthen accountability, transparency, and reform law enforcement practices and policies nationally?
The Center is in the early stages of answering this fundamental question. Through ongoing research, analysis, and engagement of advocates, legal scholars, insurance providers, law enforcement leaders, and state and local government budget management experts, we are working to help make insurance one tool among many others that can lead to better policing and corrections.
Check back here for updates as our work progresses, or fill out the contact form below to request emailed updates on this and other initiatives at the Center.