Implicit & Explicit Bias The importance of de-escalation and force avoidance Implicit & Explicit Bias

Objectives Define and understand implicit and explicit bias Reinforce the need for fair and impartial policing Discuss strategies for reducing bias Class discussion / experiences Understand that de-escalation is woven into our force response during fluid encounters with those we serve Conclusion / Questions

A Few Definitions Bias – Prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another Implicit Bias – The Underlying attitude or stereotype that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner Explicit Bias – A deliberate attitude formed at a conscious level. These thoughts are easily self-reported

Definitions Continued: Fair and impartial policing – Fairness in processes that resolves disputes and allocates resources in an equitable manner. Consider these ideas: How complaints against officers are investigated How crime is investigated (resources used) How officers are assigned in neighborhoods Proper equipment needed to do the job Police are viewed as “legitimate” when community treated with respect and dignity

Definitions Continued Four Principles of Fair and Impartial Treatment / Pillars of Procedural Justice Fair & consistent with rules and processes Representation and voice in the process Transparency and voice in the process Impartial and unbiased decision-making

Fair and Impartial Policing 21st Century Policing report produced in May of 2015 indicates that in order for police officers to be fair and impartial it is critical that we have a thorough understanding of both implicit and explicit bias Who in this class is willing to share a story about an experience they’ve seen or lived that illustrates either implicit or explicit bias?

Bias Continued Remember – “bias” is not limited to “bad people.” We all have our own bias. The problems are widespread and arise from history, from culture, and from racial inequities that still pervade our society and are especially infused in our criminal justice system ** **Listening session on building trust and legitimacy – 21st Century Policing – Jennifer Eberhardt

Supervisors & Leaders – All of us! We have a responsibility to identify and change policies and practices that are bias Implement policies and training that inhibit or prevent bias Model appropriate behavior

Mitigate Implicit Bias Through: Anti-bias policies and practice Vigorous investigation of crime Training and education Community input Accountability / Responsibility Specific policy supporting dignity and respect Appropriate discipline for violations of anti-bias policies

Discussion Topics – Challenges When does your agency release video tape of an incident? How does your agency respond to constitutionally protected protests? Tell us how your agency responds to a controversial officer- involved use of force? What are your policies concerning the mentally ill and homeless?

De-escalation Calming a heated situation (when possible) is of course preferred De-escalation and force avoidance (increasing reaction time/space between police and an aggressive subject(s) should be taught during your agency’s use of force training Understanding your options can only increase your chances of a successful outcome Training for these options should be a part of what your agency does everyday

Examples Who in today’s class will share an incident in their career that could have been handled better if an officer had been calmer or not jumped to the wrong conclusion? Who can share a success story for all of us that illustrates a calming approach to a heated situation that eventually resulted in an incident being successfully concluded with no harm or less harm than anticipated? Discuss the characteristics of each person involved.

Defeating Bias and Internal Excuses Focus on the goal, values, and mission Remember – total team effort! Police and community Respect others regardless of circumstances

Defeating bias The goal is to defeat bias by providing quality service that: Restores neighborhoods back to the citizens Allows businesses, schools, and residents to thrive & feel safe Encourages collaboration between communities and the police

Resources 21st Century Policing (USDOJ) The Houston Police Department Advice from police chiefs and community leaders (PERF) Procedural Justice for Law Enforcement (Kumard and Moe) Not Your Grandparents Bias (Fridell) Victims of Group Think (Janus) Talent is Not Enough (Maxwell)

Remember your impact on those you serve Respect Dignity Patience De-escalate when possible Awareness of implicit bias Goals, Mission, Values Community involvement