Improving Officer and Civilian Health

Summary

As a profession, law enforcement produces unique occupational health outcomes for officers and civilians. To date, most studies have focused on improving health outcomes related to law enforcement from a microlevel perspective, with particular attention to individual and behavioral factors. Such a focus misses the broader macro-level factors that perpetuate occupational harms. To address this gap, this study uses the PRECEDE-PROCEED model of intervention development to examine modifiable macro-level factors contributing to adverse occupational health outcomes for law enforcement and civilians. Using a mixed-method design and partnering with local law enforcement agencies, the investigators will implement and test an intervention to reduce occupational health harms related to law enforcement.

Detailed Description

The study examines the acceptability and feasibility of three intervention components aimed at improving officer well-being and civilian outcomes: 1) a novel conversational AI software that interacts with officers during civilian interactions; 2) digitization of cite and release paperwork; and 3) an alternate response unit for calls not needing officer response. The first two intervention components will be implemented and piloted, while the alternative response unit will be evaluated solely for acceptability and feasibility. This mixed-methods, solutions-oriented prospective cohort study has the following aims: Aim 1a: Determine the acceptability and feasibility of using AI to reinforce officers' de-escalation training, avoid using force, increase cite and release when eligible, and refer civilians to behavioral health, public health, and social service organizations. Aim 1b: Assess the acceptability and feasibility of digitizing required paperwork to reduce arrests for low-level offenses where arrests are not statutorily required. Aim 1c: Determine the acceptability and feasibility of an alternate response unit for behavioral health 911 calls, emphasizing stakeholder inquiry to assess appropriateness and potential impact. Aim 2a: Pilot AI software and evaluate outcomes related to use of force, citations instead of arrests, and referrals to social, behavioral, and public health services, assessing how implementation processes influence effectiveness. Aim 2b: Pilot digitized cite \& release paperwork, evaluating arrest and citation outcomes, with a focus on workflow adoption and officer behavior change. Aim 2c: Reduce officers' moral injury by empowering citation over arrest for eligible civilians, examining how the intervention and support processes affect individual well-being (job satisfaction, depression, and anxiety).

Eligibility Criteria

Interventions